Victor Osimhen delivered the decisive moment as Galatasaray edged past Beşiktaş 1–0 in Saturday’s heated Istanbul derby at Tüpraş Stadyumu.
The Nigerian striker’s first-half header proved enough for the league leaders to secure a crucial win, giving him bragging rights in a Super Eagles showdown against fellow Nigerian midfielder Wilfred Ndidi.
Victor Osimhen Goal Seals Istanbul Derby Win
The result keeps Galatasaray firmly on top of the Turkish Super Lig table while maintaining strong momentum in multiple competitions.
The Victor Osimhen goal arrived just before the interval in the Round 25 encounter.
In the 39th minute, Leroy Sané delivered a delicate lofted pass into the penalty area. Osimhen reacted quickest, rising above his marker to power a header into the right side of the net and give Galatasaray the lead.
The strike was the striker’s 11th goal of the Turkish Super Lig season, proving his importance to the club’s title push.
Osimhen has also contributed four assists in the league so far, making him one of the most productive attackers in Turkey this season.
Osimhen Form Boosts Galatasaray Title Push
The Victor Osimhen form continues to impress as the Nigerian international extended his scoring run to three straight matches.
Before the derby, Osimhen had already found the net in the Champions League clash against Juventus and followed it with another goal against Alanyaspor in the league.
Across all competitions, the striker now boasts 22 goal contributions this season, including seven goals in the Champions League.
Galatasaray faced a tense finish after Sané was shown a red card 17 minutes into the second half for a reckless challenge. Reduced to ten men, the defending champions were forced to defend deep for long spells.
Despite the setback, the Istanbul giants held their ground to protect the narrow advantage and secure all three points.
The victory also provides a confidence boost ahead of their upcoming Champions League clash with Liverpool FC on Tuesday, with Osimhen once again proving decisive on the big stage.