Fans have rallied behind Victor Osimhen after his heated clash with Beşiktaş defender Emirhan Topçu during Galatasaray’s 1–1 draw.
Many said his reaction showed passion, not indiscipline, amid claims of provocation.
Supporters of Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen have defended him after a tense on-field altercation with Beşiktaş defender Emirhan Topçu during Galatasaray’s 1–1 draw in the Turkish Super Lig on Saturday.
The incident occurred in the 39th minute at RAMS Park when Osimhen appeared to be fouled in an aerial challenge, but referee Yasin Kol allowed play to continue. The Nigerian forward, visibly frustrated, confronted Topçu and was seen grabbing him by the neck before teammates intervened to separate both players.
The clash quickly drew wide attention from fans and football analysts. While some criticized Osimhen’s reaction, others argued that his emotions showed his passion and commitment to the game.
One fan, @Thoysquare, wrote on X, “Zlatan punched teammates, Balotelli fought coaches, Suarez bit humans, and they still played for elite clubs. If you think attitude is why no big team wants Osimhen, you’re not watching football.”
Another supporter, Emmanuel Nnechi, suggested that Osimhen may have been responding to a racial slur, saying, “We are quick to condemn the victim for reacting while sparing the offender.”
Many others echoed similar sentiments, pointing out that players like Sergio Ramos, Diego Costa, and Casemiro have committed worse offences without being vilified. One fan, Vikel, wrote, “You just want to tarnish a talented Black player’s image. Most top players have done worse and are still celebrated.”
The 1–1 draw ended Galatasaray’s perfect start to the season, halting their seven-game winning streak in the Turkish Super Lig.
