Victor Osimhen praised after Galatasaray derby win but warned of Liverpool challenge

Former Besiktas midfielder Sinan Engin has hailed Victor Osimhen for making the difference for Galatasaray in the club’s derby win, Afrik-Foot reports.

Osimhen’s decisive moment in the Istanbul derby proved the difference as Galatasaray secured a narrow but valuable 1-0 away victory over Besiktas in the Turkish Süper Lig on Saturday.

The Nigeria international struck the only goal of the contest in the 39th minute, heading home Leroy Sané’s cross to settle a tense encounter between two fierce city rivals. The win strengthened Galatasaray’s position at the top of the league table.

Engin, 61, believes the match ultimately highlighted the gap in attacking quality between the two teams.

Speaking on the Asist Analiz YouTube channel as per Habersakirmiz, Engin offered a frank assessment of the derby and repeatedly pointed to Osimhen as the key figure behind Galatasaray’s victory.

Engin argued that Galatasaray’s superiority in key moments ultimately decided the derby, even if the match was not without controversy.

Despite the contentious moments, Engin reserved particular praise for Osimhen’s all-round impact.

What Engin said about Victor Osimhen and Galatasaray

“I congratulate Galatasaray on their victory,” Engin said.

“Their quality stood out. The difference in strikers between the two teams was immediately apparent. We can say this victory was due to Osimhen. Sane should have been sent off in the 29th minute. Not just a red, but a bright red. Osimhen should have been sent off as well.

“Ultimately, Galatasaray won thanks to their quality. The difference in quality was evident. Galatasaray is a good team, they won the derby and gained a huge advantage on the road to the championship.”

Osimhen’s goal was his 11th in the Süper Lig this season and continued an impressive run that has seen him score in three consecutive matches in all competitions.

Sinan Engin applauded Osimhen’s quality, noting that Galatasaray are a better team because of the Super Eagles striker’s aura.

“Osimhen, what kind of person are you, brother? May God protect you from the evil eye. You have incredible physical strength, football ethics, attacking press, goals, shots, and the ability to make the team feel relaxed. You’re truly a fantastic player.”

Attention now turns to Galatasaray’s next challenge in the Champions League, where they face a daunting trip against Liverpool. While Engin acknowledged Galatasaray’s unpredictable qualities, he warned that the English side’s current form could make the task extremely difficult.

“Why not? Galatasaray is an interesting team, but Liverpool are in very good form right now and they’re very determined. Galatasaray will have a very difficult time on Tuesday evening,” he said.

Galatasaray claimed a historic 1-0 win over Liverpool during the group stage of the Champions League with Osimhen netting the crucial winning goal. The Turkish giants will target a repeat performance in midweek at the RAMS Park ahead of the return fixture at Anfield.