Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen has received strong support from fans after a fiery on-field altercation with Emirhan Topçu during Saturday’s tense Turkish Super Lig Istanbul derby.

The incident occurred in the 39th minute of Galatasaray’s 1–1 draw with Beşiktaş at RAMS Park. Osimhen appeared to be fouled during an aerial challenge, but referee Yasin Kol allowed play to continue. Frustrated by the call, the Nigerian forward confronted Topçu and briefly grabbed him by the neck before teammates from both sides intervened to diffuse the situation.

The moment sparked heated debate online, with some criticising Osimhen for losing his cool, while many others defended his actions as a display of raw passion and competitive fire.

Osimhen Grabs Emirhan's Throat! — Tensions Explode In Galatasaray vs Beşiktaş As 1-1 Derby Boils Over | Sports247 Nigeria

One user on X, @Thoysquare, compared the incident to similar moments involving top stars, writing:

“Zlatan punched teammates, Balotelli fought coaches, Suarez bit people, and they still played for elite clubs. If you think attitude is why no big team wants Osimhen, you’re watching fantasy football.”

Others suggested that Osimhen may have been provoked or even racially abused. @EmmanuelNnechi commented,

“We are quick to condemn the victim for reacting to a racial slur while sparing the offender.”

Some fans argued that the foul might have triggered memories of the facial injury that forced Osimhen to wear a protective mask in games.

“He probably got flashbacks of that incident and lost his head,” wrote @Escanor.

In another post, @Josh pointed out that top footballers have long been involved in similar scuffles:

“Zidane head-butted Materazzi, Pepe nearly injured Messi, Hazard kicked a ball boy, yet they were all forgiven. But when it’s Osimhen, people overreact.”

@DavidLeoAlabi added a broader perspective, suggesting racial double standards in football:

“Osimhen’s only ‘crime’ is showing emotion in a game that celebrates chaos when it’s European players but condemns it when it’s African players.

Football is built on pride and adrenaline. If he walks away, they call him weak. If he reacts, he’s called undisciplined.”

Similarly, @Lamemzy noted,

“Ramos, Diego Costa, Casemiro — they’ve all done worse. Zidane even head-butted someone.”

And @Vikel wrote,

“Most top players have had worse moments and are still celebrated today. You just want to tarnish the image of a hardworking black player.”

Despite the controversy, the 1–1 draw ended Galatasaray’s perfect start to the season, bringing their run of seven straight league wins to a halt.

Fans Rally Behind Victor Osimhen After Heated Clash in Turkish Derby

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