Victor Osimhen of Galatasaray Copyright: xNicolòxCampoxImago
Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen has shown support for Galatasaray teammate Günay Güvenç following the club’s shocking Turkish Cup exit to Gençlerbirliği, Soccernet.ng reports.
Experienced goalkeeper Güvenç, who was making his 14th appearance of the season and had featured in all of Galatasaray’s Cup matches this season endured a difficult outing, as his mistake proved decisive and sealed his side’s exit from the competition.
The 34-year-old could have done better for the opening goal, as his initial save rebounded kindly for Firatcan Uzum, who tapped home in the 51st minute to give Gençlerbirliği the lead.
Victor Osimhen, Ilkay Gundogan, Leroy Sane, Gabriel Sara for Galatasaray. Copyright: ImagoxBSRxAgencyx
Things went from bad to worse as Galatasaray pushed for an equalizer. Güvenç was again at fault for the second goal after misjudging a corner, dropping the ball and allowing Adama Traore an easy finish. The goal doubled the visitors’ advantage and left Galatasaray with an uphill task they could not overcome.
Some sections of the home supporters voiced their frustration afterwards, whistling and booing the goalkeeper. After the final whistle, Güvenç was visibly emotional and broke down in tears before being comforted by his teammates.
Victor Osimhen backs Günay Güvenç after error
Mario Lemina of Galatasaray SK celebrates with Victor Osimhen and Gabriel Sara. Copyright: ImagoxBSRxAgencyx
The only major positive on the day was the return of Victor Osimhen for Galatasaray, after he had missed several matches due to injury. The Super Eagles forward came off the bench in the second half and while he could not spark a comeback, his presence added urgency to the attack.
After the match, the 27-year-old took to social media to publicly support his teammate, who had come under heavy criticism.
“We stand with Günay Güvenç. One moment doesn’t define a player, mistakes are part of football. It can never outweigh the effort, commitment, and passion he brings to the team,” Osimhen said,per Buchi Laba on X.
“Football is a game of highs and lows, what truly matters is how we respond and how we support each other through those moments. To our fans, thank you for your support.”
Victor Osimhen and Akor Adams celebrate a goal for Nigeria. Copyright: xshengolpixsxImago
Galatasaray will now be looking to move past their cup disappointment and shift focus to the league, where they are chasing a fourth consecutive Turkish Super League title.
Their next challenge comes against fierce rivals Fenerbahce at Rams Park on Sunday in what could prove to be a decisive clash in the title race, given that there are only a few matches remaining this season.
Ayomide Oguntimehin is a CAF-accredited sports journalist and Chief Editor at Soccernet.ng. He has interviewed Super Eagles stars like William Troost-Ekong, Taiwo Awoniyi, Bright Osayi-Samuel, and Ademola Lookman, and is known for breaking major transfer stories.
Ayomide has worked with Sports Brief, Naija News and served as Social Lead Editor at Legit.ng. He has also featured on Goal, TVC News, Sports Mole, and Milan News24. He holds a Master’s degree and is currently pursuing a PhD. Follow Ayomide on X (formerly Twitter): @ayo_oguntimehin