In a derby that promised fireworks but delivered little, Galatasaray and Fenerbahçe battled to a goalless draw in their highly anticipated Turkish Super Lig clash on Monday.
The top-of-the-table encounter, expected to be a thrilling spectacle, failed to live up to expectations as neither side could break the deadlock.
Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen, who has been in prolific form with 14 goals in 18 league appearances, was kept quiet by a resolute Fenerbahçe defense that has conceded just 22 goals in 23 matches.
Osimhen’s Frustrating Night
Osimhen thought he had won a penalty in the first half after going down in the box, but referee Slavko Vinčić specially appointed due to ongoing refereeing controversies in Turkey dismissed the appeals.
The Nigerian forward endured a quiet evening, failing to register a shot on target and managing just one effort off target.
Isolated in attack, he had only 20 touches throughout the game but maintained an 89% pass accuracy (completing 8 of 9 passes).
He battled hard in duels, winning three out of six on the ground and four out of seven aerial contests, yet lost possession seven times and committed two fouls.
Despite his struggles, Osimhen won three fouls and made a defensive clearance, but it was ultimately a frustrating night as Galatasaray failed to score in a league match for the first time this season.
Tactical Battle Ends in Stalemate
The match was dominated by fouls and stoppages rather than clear-cut chances. Galatasaray controlled possession but struggled to trouble Fenerbahçe goalkeeper İrfan Can Eğribayat, while Mourinho’s side remained compact and disciplined in defense.
Galatasaray remain top of the Turkish Super Lig with 64 points from 24 matches, while Fenerbahçe stay second with 58 points.
Though the draw keeps Galatasaray’s lead intact, Fenerbahçe will feel they missed an opportunity to close the gap in the title race.
