Osimhen shines in first Intercontinental derby as Galatasaray sink Mourinho’s Fenerbahce

Victor Osimhen impressed in his first Intercontinental derby to inspire Galatasaray to a memorable 3-1 victory over Fenerbahce at the Ulker Stadyumu Fenerbahce Sukru Saracoglu Spor Kompleksi on Saturday.

The Nigeria international, who joined from Napoli on loan early this month, was named in the starting lineup by manager Okan Buruk despite the return of star forward Mauro Icardi from injury.

Jose Mourinho-led Fenerbahce were high on confidence having kept clean sheets in each of their last three games.

However, Galatasaray did not get the memo as the champions took the lead in the 20th minute following an error from goalkeeper Dominik Livaković.

Eight minutes later, Galatasaray grabbed their second of the encounter, with Osimhen providing the assist with a touch of his brilliance.

Expected to head the ball goalwards from a decent cross, the Super Eagles striker opted to chest the ball in the path of former Napoli teammate Dries Mertens, who finished with aplomb.

Just shy of the hour mark, Galatasaray’s evening got even better as former Arsenal midfielder Lucas Torreira set up Gabriel Sara to sidefoot the visitors’ third goal.

Veteran forward Edin Dzeko converted from the penalty spot shortly after to reduce the deficit for Fenerbahce but the home side could not conjure up a comeback.

Osimhen would be displeased that he could not find the net from the half chances that came his way, however, the 25-year-old has started life in Turkey on a positive note with two assists from two games.

With the win, Galatasaray go five points clear of Fenerbahce on the Super Lig table, with the champions registering a perfect six wins in as many games.