Victor Osimhen provided an early assist but could not prevent Galatasaray from suffering a heavy 4-1 defeat to Samsunspor in the Turkish Super Lig on Saturday, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.
Galatasaray had the opportunity to seal the league title with a victory, regardless of other results, but were stunned as the hosts produced a strong comeback performance to claim all three points.
Osimhen played a key role in Galatasaray’s early breakthrough, setting up Yunus Akgün in the ninth minute, with the winger scoring from a tight angle to give the visitors the lead.
The Nigerian striker remained involved throughout the contest, testing the defence with a close-range header that went wide in the first half and seeing further efforts blocked or narrowly off target after the break.
However, Samsunspor responded decisively, overturning the deficit with four goals to hand Galatasaray their first concession of four goals in a league match under manager Okan Buruk.
The defeat has reopened the title race, with Fenerbahce closing the gap at the top to four points after a 3-1 win over Istanbul Basaksehir.
Galatasaray remain top of the standings with 74 points from 32 matches, while Fenerbahce now have 70, with only two rounds of fixtures left in the season.
Osimhen’s involvement also included being flagged offside early in the match and a late handball, as Galatasaray struggled to regain control after conceding.
The result means Galatasaray must now wait for another opportunity to secure the title, with their next fixture coming against Antalyaspor at RAMS Park, where they could still clinch the championship in front of their home supporters before ending the season away at Kasimpasa.
Despite the setback, Osimhen’s assist takes him to 18 goals contributed in the league this season, even as his side’s title celebrations are delayed.
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