The Nigerian striker had sparked injury concerns after being forced off in the final minutes of Nigeria’s 1–1 World Cup qualifying draw with Zimbabwe in Uyo. Upon returning to Turkey, he was assessed for a potential muscle issue but has now been cleared by Galatasaray’s medical staff.
Osimhen trained fully with his teammates ahead of the derby and is expected to play a key role in one of Turkish football’s most intense fixtures. His presence will be a major boost for Galatasaray as they aim to assert dominance in the league and maintain bragging rights over city rivals Besiktas.
Editorial
There’s something electric about the Istanbul derby and the return of Victor Osimhen just turned up the voltage. This isn’t just another football match it’s a clash soaked in passion, history, and pride. When a player of Osimhen’s calibre steps back into the spotlight, it adds a fresh edge to the spectacle.
Let’s be clear Galatasaray need him. Not just as a goal scorer, but as a presence. He’s the kind of striker who unsettles defenders before the first whistle even blows. So, to have him declared fit, days after hobbling off in a World Cup qualifier, is a massive psychological boost.
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It’s also a testament to Osimhen’s resilience. How many players return from international duty with a niggle and still make themselves available for a fiery derby? That kind of commitment speaks volumes, not only to his character but to his understanding of what this match means to the fans.
Derbies aren’t won purely on tactics they’re won on moments, on players willing to dig deep and shift the balance. Osimhen is that kind of player. His physicality, pace, and instincts in front of goal make him a constant threat. Whether he starts or comes off the bench, his impact is guaranteed.
This isn’t just Galatasaray vs. Besiktas. It’s a battle of wills. And with Osimhen fit and hungry, Galatasaray walk into that stadium knowing they have a gladiator ready to fight their cause.
Did You Know?
- Victor Osimhen was named CAF Men’s Player of the Year in 2023, becoming the first Nigerian to win it since Nwankwo Kanu in 1999.
- The Istanbul derby between Galatasaray and Besiktas is over a century old, with the first match played in 1924.
- Galatasaray signed Osimhen from Napoli in one of the most high-profile transfers in Turkish football history.
- The Nef Stadium, Galatasaray’s home ground, has a capacity of over 52,000 and is one of the loudest stadiums in Europe.
- Osimhen scored on his Turkish Süper Lig debut, instantly winning over the Galatasaray faithful.
