By Our Correspondent

Victor Osimhen scored the decisive goal as Galatasaray defeated Besiktas 1-0 in a high-stakes Istanbul derby on Saturday, ending the hosts’ 18-match unbeaten streak.

The match carried added significance as it featured a personal duel between Super Eagles vice-captain Osimhen and national team captain Wilfred Ndidi.

Osimhen’s first-half header in the 39th minute, expertly timed from a precise Leroy Sane cross, marked his 11th league goal of the season.

The Nigerian striker’s goal extended his goal contribution streak to eight consecutive league matches, matching the longest such run in his career, previously achieved with Napoli in 2023.

So far this season, the 27-year-old has amassed 18 goals and six assists across all competitions in 26 appearances for Galatasaray.

The game intensified after Sane was shown a red card in the 62nd minute, reducing Galatasaray to ten men and giving Besiktas more control.

Ndidi led Besiktas’ push forward, making crucial tackles and clearances, and maintaining an 85% pass completion rate.

The Super Eagles captain came closest to equalising in the 72nd minute with a long-range strike, only to see goalkeeper Ugurcan Cakir make a spectacular save.

Despite Besiktas’ relentless second-half pressure, Galatasaray held firm, securing all three points and maintaining their top spot in the Turkish Super Lig.

The win increases Galatasaray’s lead to seven points over second-placed Fenerbahce, who have a game in hand.

Besiktas, currently fourth, suffered a major setback in their European qualification hopes.

Galatasaray will now focus on their UEFA Champions League round of 16 first-leg clash against Liverpool on Tuesday, aiming to continue their impressive run in Europe.