Galatasaray manager Okan Buruk has revealed that star striker Victor Osimhen missed the team’s 2-2 draw in the Turkish Cup clash against İstanbul Başakşehir at RAMS Park on Wednesday night due to illness.
Osimhen’s absence from the starting lineup surprised fans, especially considering the strength of the opposition. While speculation suggested that Buruk might be rotating the squad to rest the Nigerian striker for upcoming fixtures, the manager clarified that the 26-year-old had been unwell following the weekend match.
“He had some health issues before the game,” Buruk explained. “Osimhen developed a fever after the last match and missed several training sessions. He is not in the squad because he is not physically ready.”
The thrilling encounter saw İstanbul Başakşehir strike first, with Deniz Türüç opening the scoring in the 35th minute. Galatasaray’s Davinson Sánchez equalized in the 51st minute, but Başakşehir regained the lead just two minutes later through former AC Milan striker Krzysztof Piątek. Galatasaray leveled the score again in the 78th minute thanks to Abdulkerim Bardakcı.
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Drama unfolded late in the match when Başakşehir’s Onur Ergün received a red card in the 86th minute for a second yellow card offense. Galatasaray had a golden chance to secure a win after being awarded a penalty in the 97th minute, but Michy Batshuayi’s spot-kick was saved by the opposing goalkeeper, sealing the 2-2 draw.
Osimhen has been a key member of Buruk’s side since joining on loan in the summer from Serie A side Napoli. He has found the back of the net 13 times while providing five assists in 16 games across all competitions.
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