Victor Osimhen warns of ‘chaos’ ahead of explosive Galatasaray-Fenerbahce Istanbul derby

Victor Osimhen has warned that Galatasaray’s Istanbul derby against Fenerbahce will be filled with “intense” emotions and “chaos” as the Nigerian striker targets a victory that could strengthen his side’s grip on the Turkish Super Lig title race.

Galatasaray host their bitter city rivals at RAMS Park on Monday, knowing that a win would open up a six-point gap over Fenerbahce and move them above current leaders Amedspor, who have collected 20 points from a game more.

The defending champions head into the contest with 19 points from eight matches, three ahead of Fenerbahce, setting the stage for a potentially decisive early-season encounter.

Osimhen understands the significance of the fixture, which often carries consequences beyond the three points on offer.

“When you talk about the derby game, you talk about a very intense one and full of emotions and chaos,” he told pre-match media.

“But we’re looking forward to it. These are the kind of games you win and you can say you’re halfway through the championship.”

Osimhen backs Galatasaray to use home advantage

The Nigerian striker expects a difficult contest against a Fenerbahce side that has also enjoyed an encouraging run of results.

However, he believes the atmosphere at RAMS Park could give Galatasaray an important advantage as they attempt to extend their lead over their rivals.

“It’s not going to be easy, definitely. They are also a good side,” he said. “But they’re coming to RAMS Park, and this is a big advantage for us.”

The prospect of another heated encounter is backed by recent history between the clubs.

In April last year, Osimhen scored twice as Galatasaray defeated Fenerbahce 2-1 in the Turkish Cup quarter-finals. The match ended amid disorder, with police entering the pitch to restore calm.

Former Fenerbahce manager Jose Mourinho also grabbed Galatasaray coach Okan Buruk by the nose after the final whistle, further highlighting the tension that has surrounded recent meetings between the Istanbul rivals.

Both teams enter Monday’s derby with momentum after recording consecutive league victories.

Galatasaray defeated Kasimpasa 3-1 before edging Genclerbirligi 1-0, while Fenerbahce registered successive 3-0 wins against Rizespor and Alanyaspor.

Galatasaray also arrive after an impressive European result, having beaten Lille 4-2 away from home in the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday. Osimhen scored the fourth goal as the Turkish side recovered from a 2-1 deficit to claim their first victory in the competition.

‘I am not scared of challenges’ – Osimhen

Osimhen has continued to deliver goals for Galatasaray but has faced questions over whether criticism following matches in which he fails to score affects his confidence.

The striker dismissed those suggestions, insisting that he remains focused on contributing to the team’s success regardless of individual performances.

“I just try to do my best. Most of the time, the game don’t go how I want, not just for me, but for the team.

“But this doesn’t mean I’m nervous. I came from a place where I am not scared of challenges.”

The 26-year-old has scored six league goals this season after establishing himself as one of Galatasaray’s leading attacking threats during his initial loan spell in 2024-25.

He scored 37 goals in 41 appearances across all competitions during that campaign, including 26 in the league, to finish as the division’s top scorer. His goals helped Galatasaray secure both the Super Lig title and the Turkish Cup.

Osimhen remains convinced of his ability despite the scrutiny that accompanies his performances.

“Nobody can tell me how to make these runs, how to play my ball, how to score my goals,” he said. “This is the kind of thing that I do. It is the reason why I’m here, it’s the reason why I’m one of the very best strikers in the world.”

Galatasaray come before individual ambitions

Despite his confidence, Osimhen stressed that personal achievements must remain secondary to the club’s collective objectives.

The Nigerian believes the team’s success should take precedence over individual recognition, particularly in a fixture as important as the Istanbul derby.

“The club is bigger than any player.

“This is about the team, the collective effort of the team.”

With both sides carrying winning momentum into Monday’s encounter, Osimhen will hope to make another decisive contribution as Galatasaray seek to strengthen their position in the title race and claim bragging rights over their fiercest rivals.