Nigeria and Fenerbahce defender Bright Osayi-Samuel has defended his actions in the wake of a brawl with some fans of Tranzonspor.
The right-back came under the spotlight when he was captured exchanging blows with a fan of Tranzonspor during last Sunday’s Superlig game.
Fenerbahce defeated the hosts 3-2, thanks to a brace from Brazilian midfielder and a later winner from France international Michy Batshuayi.
However, chaos ensued after the final whistle, with some irate supporters of Trabzonspor storming the pitch to attack the Fenerbahce players and officials. In videos that went viral on social media, the fans were seen violently attacking players as the stewards tried to save the situation.
Osayi-Samuel claims self-defense after punching attacker
In one of the videos, Osayi-Samuel was seen standing up to an invader and retaliated by punching the onrushing Trabzonspor fan.
The Nigerian right-back’s actions have, however, divided opinion, with some praising him for pushing back, while others have criticised him for punching the fan.
Reacting to this, Osayi-Samuel said the Trabzonspor fans who attacked him and his teammates had weapons on them. He further described his actions as self-defence, adding that he felt obligated to defend his colleagues on the pitch.
“The fans attacked the team, some had weapons on them, and I had to defend my team, it was self-defence, that’s what happened. My teammates suffered cuts and bruises, some were scared, and several others also joined me to try to defend the team,” Osayi-Samuel said, as quoted by Score Nigeria.
“We found a way to win and avenge our only loss in the league to the same team after they beat us at our home in the first round.”
Meanwhile, Osayi-Samuel, who is currently away with the Super Eagles on international duty, could face disciplinary action over his conduct. Fenerbahce have, however, leapt to the defence of their player, threatening to even withdraw from the Superlig if Osayi-Samuel is sanctioned.
