Victor Osimhen under fire after costly error in Galatasaray collapse at Samsunspor

Victor Osimhen has come under intense scrutiny following Galatasaray’s heavy 1-4 defeat to Samsunspor in the Turkish Super Lig, a result that reignited debate over his decision making in key moments.

The Nigerian forward, who has been one of the club’s standout attacking figures this season, started brightly at the Samsun Yeni 19 Mayıs Stadyumu on Saturday, providing an early assist for Yunus Akgün’s ninth minute opener.

However, the momentum shifted quickly as Samsunspor responded with a ruthless spell. Marius Mouandilmadji struck twice before half time to overturn the deficit, before Cherif Ndiaye extended the advantage after the break.

Despite Galatasaray’s attempts to regroup, the match slipped further out of reach, with defensive instability and costly errors proving decisive in a damaging league setback yet.

The turning point of the contest arrived when Osimhen became directly involved in a moment of chaos led to Galatasaray being reduced in numbers After chesting down a long ball from the back the striker attempted to recycle possession by playing a pass back towards goalkeeper Günay Güvenc.

The delivery however lacked precision and placed the goalkeeper under immediate pressure. In a hurried attempt to recover control Güvenc handled the ball outside his penalty area resulting in a dismissal that destabilised the visitors.

Osimhen reacted angrily, visibly frustrated with the breakdown in communication and the consequences that followed. From that point Galatasaray struggled to contain Samsunspor’s attacking waves with Ndiaye later adding a fourth goal to complete a comprehensive victory.

Post-match reactions were swift as former Besiktas coach Engin criticised Osimhen’s performance on Beyaz Futbol. He questioned the striker’s attitude and decision making in key phases of play.

“Osimhen is not bigger than Galatasaray. He played brilliantly during his loan spell, I admired him. But now he’s arguing with the referee and his teammates,” the 61-year-old said on the Beyaz Futbol channel.

He added further criticism of the error leading to the sending off: “He’s playing incredibly carelessly. How can he pass to the centre-back? What kind of complacency is that my friend? The defeat also tightened the Super Lig title race, with Fenerbahce closing the gap, although Galatasaray remain four points clear at the top.”