Former Beşiktaş and Super Eagles goalkeeper Ike Shorunmu during an exclusive interview with Footy-Africa lauded Victor Osimhen following the striker’s decisive role in Galatasaray’s high-stakes victory over bitter rivals Fenerbahçe.
The Istanbul derby, widely regarded as one of the most volatile and atmospheric fixtures in global football, once again lived up to its reputation on Sunday.
Speaking on the intense rivalry and Osimhen’s impact, Shorunmu likened the atmosphere to a “war,” emphasizing the immense pressure placed on the Nigerian international by the opposing side.
Tug of war in Istanbul
“All over the world, when there is a derby precisely in Turkey, it’s like a war,” Shorunmu exclusively told Footy-Africa.
“The one between Galatasaray and Fenerbahçe was a tug of war and a very difficult game. It is one of the best and most controversial derbies in the world. You can tell from the atmosphere that the fans are crazy about these kinds of games.”
Osimhen who recently returned from injury, broke the deadlock in the 40th minute with a close-range finish to hand the hosts the advantage at Rams Park.
Baris Alper Yilmaz doubled the lead for Galatasaray from the penalty spot in the 67th minute, before Lucas Torreira wrapped up the game with a third goal late in the game.
Shorunmu stated that Fenerbahçe and their supporters tried to unsettle Osimhen after lodging a petition seeking to rule him out of the game due to the protective bandage on his right forearm.
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However, the plan backfired as Osimhen found the back of the net in Galatasaray’s 3-0 rout.
“The Fenerbahçe team and their fans did a lot to distract the ‘main man’ of Galatasaray, Victor Osimhen. They knew he would put them under a lot of pressure, and at the end of the day, his goal counted. He survived the pressure and took his chances. He’s just unplayable when at his best; Galatasaray are lucky to have him,” he added.
Generational debate: from Hagi to Osimhen
This season, Osimhen has achieved 20 goals and seven assists in 31 appearances across all competitions
Osimhen’s explosive form in Turkey has sparked debates among the Cimbom faithful, with some suggesting he is the greatest foreign import to ever grace the Süper Lig.
Shorunmu, who faced legendary Romanian playmaker Gheorghe Hagi during his own playing days in Turkey, offered a balanced perspective on the comparison.
“Fans can escalate things or say something as a result of excitement, especially after an important victory over bitter rivals,” Shorunmu remarked.
“Before Osimhen, there were other foreign players like Gheorghe Hagi. He was an incredible footballer and I was fortunate to play against him back then; they said he was the best. It’s a generational thing. Now, Osimhen is in the circle and is seen as one of their best. He is a star, so he needs to manage this time well and continue to deliver for Galatasaray.”
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Commitment and passion
As Osimhen continues to break records and win over the Istanbul giants’ supporters, Shorunmu believes the secret to the striker’s instant icon status lies in his work ethic.
“I know they love him and are crazy about him, and that is because of his commitment and passion for the club,” Shorunmu concluded.
