Galatasaray 3-0 Fenerbahçe: What Super Eagles star Osimhen said after goalscoring injury return

Victor Osimhen made a powerful statement on his return from injury as Galatasaray beat Fenerbahçe 3-0 in a fierce Istanbul derby, strengthening their grip on the Turkish Süper Lig title race, Afrik-Foot reports.

The Nigerian striker, who made his long-awaited return to the starting lineup after weeks on the sidelines with a fractured arm, showed sharpness and confidence when it mattered most.

Late in the first half, he latched onto a headed pass from Mario Lemina and expertly finished with his knee to give Galatasaray the lead.

Speaking after the match, Osimhen was quick to recognise the role of the club’s medical staff in helping him return to action. He made it clear that while he may not yet feel fully recovered, the support he received allowed him to perform at a high level.

“I thank Dr. Yener and the medical team. They did a great job,” Osimhen said as per Fanatik. “A full return is impossible, but they prepared me very well psychologically.”

That mental readiness showed in his performance. Despite the pressure of a derby and recent disappointment in the cup against Gençlerbirliği, Galatasaray responded with intensity and control.

Osimhen pointed to the team’s collective effort as the key factor behind the win.

“We fought well as a team. We disappointed our fans in the cup. I’m proud of my team’s performance and happy about the victory,” he added.

More than anything, Osimhen’s goal reinforced his belief in his own ability. The 27-year-old did not shy away from stating his role clearly.

“As in every derby… You know, I can score against any team. That’s my job. I do it well. The team deserves congratulations; we showed how prepared we are,” Osimhen revealed.

Victor Osimhen and Galatasaray focus on the title race

The victory has major consequences. With just three matches left, Galatasaray now sit seven points clear of Fenerbahçe, a gap that puts them firmly in control of the title race. Osimhen described it as another important step, but not the final one.

That focus on consistency is crucial. He stressed that every remaining game will be treated seriously, starting with the upcoming test against Samsunspor.

“We’ve taken another step closer to our championship goal. Samsunspor is a quality opponent. We will want to win every match from now on.

“To finish the season well, we will take every opponent seriously and want to win every match. Samsunspor is a tough opponent, but we will do our best,” he noted.

Osimhen also addressed off-field controversy surrounding the protective equipment he wore during the match. Some criticism came from the opposition, but the striker dismissed it, making it clear that his attention is on football, not distractions.

“Personally, I don’t look at the internet much. When I arrived at the facility, someone from the club (regarding the objection about the protective equipment used) mentioned this.

“I don’t understand these people. They’re going to compete against the best team in the league, but they’re complaining about this. I scored my goal, I did my job, I did my best.”

Since joining permanently in the summer, Osimhen has delivered 20 goals and seven assists in 31 appearances, proving decisive in Galatasaray’s title push.

He ended with a strong message about his connection to the club, reinforcing his commitment as the season reaches its decisive stage.

“That’s what was important to me. I’ve said it many times, I won’t tire of saying it, I’ll say it again and again; I love Galatasaray with all my heart.

“As long as I have the opportunity, I will always protect this emblem. I say this from my heart. I will fight with everything I have for this emblem.”

Osimhen powered Galatasaray to a league and cup double last season and they look on course to reclaim the Super Lig title this term.