Victor Osimhen continued his outstanding start to the Turkish Super Lig season by scoring again as defending champions Galatasaray defeated Istanbul Basaksehir 3-2 away on Friday.
The Nigeria international put Galatasaray in front in the 13th minute, completing a fine move after being supplied by Lucas Torreira. It was another decisive contribution from Osimhen, who has now scored six goals and provided two assists in four league appearances for the Yellow and Reds this season.
However, his involvement in the match ended prematurely after he suffered an injury during the first half. Osimhen received treatment on the pitch before being replaced by Bar?s Alper Y?lmaz in the 33rd minute.
Despite losing their leading scorer before half-time, Galatasaray continued to push for victory in a match that produced five goals and several changes in momentum.
Istanbul Basaksehir responded strongly after the interval and levelled in the 66th minute, when Eldor Shomurodov found the net to bring the hosts back into contention.
The visitors restored their advantage only five minutes later. Torreira, who had earlier provided the assist for Osimhen’s opener, became Galatasaray’s second goalscorer as the reigning champions moved back in front.
That lead lasted only briefly, though, as Davinson Sanchez turned the ball into his own net to hand Istanbul Basaksehir another equaliser.
With the match appearing destined to finish level, Gabriel Sara delivered the decisive moment in the 90th minute. His late winner secured all three points for Galatasaray and extended their strong beginning to the new Turkish Super Lig campaign.
The result maintained the champions’ impressive early form, while Osimhen’s latest goal further underlined his influence since joining the Galatasaray attack. His injury will now be a concern for the club after he had once again made an immediate impact before being forced off.
Galatasaray had previously recorded another 3-2 victory over Goztepe in a match in which Osimhen scored and supplied an assist. His latest goal against Istanbul Basaksehir adds to that productive run, although the striker’s early departure means attention will also focus on the extent of the injury he suffered in the first half.
The victory was ultimately secured by Sara’s dramatic finish, ensuring Galatasaray left Istanbul Basaksehir with another hard-earned league win and continued their successful defence of the Turkish Super Lig title.