By Our Correspondent
National News – Victor Osimhen has expressed confidence that Galatasaray will still secure the Turkish Süper Lig title despite a 4–1 defeat to Samsunspor at the Samsun 19 Mayıs Stadium on Saturday, a result that temporarily delayed their coronation after a strong season run in 2026.
The encounter saw Galatasaray initially take the lead through Yunus Akgün after a well-timed assist from Osimhen, who continues to play a key creative and attacking role this season.
The Istanbul giants entered the fixture in strong form after defeating rivals Fenerbahçe in a high-profile derby the previous week, and many expected them to overcome mid-table Samsunspor to confirm the league title.
However, Samsunspor responded when Marius Mouandilmadji equalised in the 22nd minute, shifting momentum in front of home supporters and tightening the title race.
The match turned further in the second half after Galatasaray goalkeeper Günay Güvenç was shown a red card, leaving the visitors numerically disadvantaged and defensively vulnerable.
Samsunspor capitalised on the situation, with Mouandilmadji scoring a second goal before Cherif Ndiaye added a brace to complete a dominant 4–1 victory, a setback that postponed Galatasaray’s coronation celebrations and increased pressure ahead of the final two fixtures.
Osimhen, speaking after the game via NTV Spor, admitted the team fell short but insisted the title race remains firmly in their control despite the setback.
He apologised to supporters who had anticipated an early celebration, noting their continued backing throughout the season.
The striker stated that Galatasaray must now refocus on their upcoming home fixture against Antalyaspor at RAMS Park, where a win would move them closer to securing the Süper Lig crown before the final match against Kasımpaşa.
The Nigerian forward, aged 27, has registered 13 league goals and five assists in 21 appearances this season, along with additional goals in the UEFA Champions League, underlining his importance in both domestic and European competitions.
With only a narrow margin separating title contenders, Osimhen emphasised discipline and consistency as key factors, urging the squad to finish strongly and avoid further slips in the decisive stage of the season.
The result keeps the title race mathematically open, but Galatasaray remain top contenders heading into the final weeks.
