A dramatic late winner sealed all three points for Fenerbahce in their 137th Super Lig match against Trabzonspor at the Papara Park, on Sunday.
Fenerbahce had taken the lead in the game through Fred (42′), but two VAR moments saw the hosts awarded penalties which Simon Banza dispatched expertly to turn the game around.
Jose Mourinho’s men fought hard and as the clock wound down, a contentious situation inside the box offered itself as an opportunity to Edin Dzeko, the veteran forward played to the whistle and tapped home on from close range to level proceedings.
VAR reviewed the situation; a foul in the build-up, but adjudged Fenerbahce’s goal was legitimate.
With 12 minutes added time left to play, both teams chased the winner, but Fenerbahce were on the strong foot and seized the moment.
Sofyan Amrabat found himself on the end of a cut back cross inside the box and did not hesitate to hit it first time – and the shot might have taken a deflection on its way in.
The travelling fans and their players celebrated wildly, Jose Mourinho joining in as his team turned their domination to victory, and close the gap with leaders Galatasaray to five points.
Nigerian Connection in Fierce Rivalry
Trabzonspor and Besiktas have a well documented rivalry, and Sunday’s encounter added another chapter to the page.
Both teams had a Nigerian start in the game – Anthony Nwakaeme for Trabzonspor and Bright Osayi-Samuel for Fenerbahce.
Nwakaeme, who rejoined Karadeniz Fırtınası after a period away in Saudi Arabia, has made six appearances for the side but is yet to score.
The 35 year-old had played four seasons in his first spell at the club, and scored 41 goals in 120 appearances. He also won the League title during Trabzon’s impressive run in 2021-22 campaign.
He played for 89 minutes before coach Senol Gunes made a tactical change bringing on Enis Destan.
On the other hand, Bright Osayi-Samuel continues to impress Jose Mourinho albeit defensively and was trusted with a starter’s spot on Sunday.
Osayi-Samuel may be counting down to the end of his contract at the club, but the 26 year-old’s commitment is unflinching.
This fixture last season spiraled into a melee, where Trabzon fans attacked players and the latter responded.
He featured for 66 minutes, making way for Filip Kostic, as Mourinho effected three changes just before his team conceded a second penalty.
Eventually, the team would manage to turn the tide and secure their 53rd win of the rivalry.