Victor Osimhen scored his 14th goal of the season to help Galatasaray secure a 1-1 draw against Hatayspor in Friday’s Turkish Super Lig match.
The Nigerian forward, who is on a season-long loan from Napoli, converted a penalty in the 56th minute in his 18th game of the season to level the score after Hatayspor’s Cemali Sertel had given the hosts the lead with his first goal of the season.
Osimhen admitted that Galatasaray lacked intensity in the first half, which allowed Hatayspor to control parts of the game.
However, the striker praised the team’s improved performance after halftime, following a motivational speech from the coach.
“We had a little lack of intensity in the first half, but after the speech from our coach, we started the second half very well,” Osimhen said.
The 26-year-old expressed confidence in his team’s progress and goals for the season, stating their commitment to learning from mistakes.
“We missed many opportunities, but we will try to do better,” he said.
Despite concerns about fatigue, Osimhen reassured that the team’s depth allows them to manage the demanding schedule.
“When I joined the team, my friends welcomed me very well.
“My coach and teammates have always shown confidence in me, making it easy to adapt.
“We have clear goals, and we’re taking firm steps toward achieving them. We will continue to fight, and I believe we will achieve great things.”
“It’s not just the 11 players; the guys on the bench are always ready,” he said.
“I’m always ready, and I always want to play for my team.”
Galatasaray’s draw has indeed increased their lead at the top of the table to nine points, with 51 points from 19 games.
Fenerbahce, in second place, currently have 42 points from 18 games and can reduce the gap to six points if they secure a win against Adana Demirspor on Sunday.
Looking ahead, Galatasaray will turn their attention to their upcoming Europa League match against Dynamo Kyiv next Tuesday.
It will be an important fixture as they aim to continue their European campaign alongside their domestic success.
