Okan Buruk has praised Galatasaray supporters for their touching tribute to Victor Osimhen ahead of the club’s UEFA Champions League clash against Liverpool FC, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.
Galatasaray hosted Liverpool at RAMS Park for their UEFA Champions League Round of 16 first-leg encounter on Tuesday night. The match carried special significance for the Turkish champions, who were making their first appearance at that stage of the competition in 12 years.
Before kickoff, the home supporters unveiled an emotional tifo in honor of Osimhen. The display showed the Super Eagles striker wearing his number 45 shirt while holding his daughter, Hailey, with his late mother portrayed watching over him from above. The powerful tribute moved the Nigerian forward to tears during the pre-match buildup.
Osimhen went on to play a decisive role in the contest, providing the assist for the game’s only goal as Galatasaray secured a hard-fought 1–0 victory over Liverpool after 90 minutes.
Speaking after the match, Buruk admitted the moment also affected him emotionally.
“I had goosebumps as well. We saw the tears in Osimhen’s eyes,” Buruk said. “Galatasaray is a team of feeling, and it always reflects this to its players. In return, it receives that emotion back from them as well.”
The coach also commended the supporters for their unwavering backing of the team throughout the season.
“There was a truly beautiful choreography today. First of all, I want to thank those who prepared it. They always support us, and they are with us even on our bad days,” he added. “Recently, when we lost to Konyaspor, they came to the airport to welcome and support the team. They are not only there for the good moments but also during difficult times.”
Buruk stressed that making the fans happy remains a major motivation for the players and staff.
“It’s wonderful to be with them. Making them happy at the end of the day is very important. I think it was a well-deserved choreography for Osimhen. Similar gestures have been done for many of our players before, even for me once. These are emotional moments that move all of us,” he said.
For Osimhen, who experienced a difficult relationship with sections of supporters during his time at SSC Napoli despite helping the club win the Serie A title in 2023, the heartfelt reception from Galatasaray fans may further reinforce that he has found a special connection with the Turkish club.