In the Turkish Cup quarterfinals, Galatasaray lost to Genclerbirligi 2-0 at home despite Victor Osimhen’s injury comeback.
The Nigerian striker was only fit for a late cameo after missing weeks due to an arm ailment. He replaced Renato Nhaga in the 78th minute as the holders were already chasing the match and having trouble making a breakthrough.
After missing four games, Osimhen had resumed full training prior to the encounter, and a brief run-out was always planned as he strives for full match fitness.
Early in the second half, the visitors took the lead. In the 51st minute, Firatcan Uzum gave Genclerbirligi the lead by reacting the fastest to a loose ball inside the area.
Galatasaray advanced to find a response. Wilfried Singo believed he had equalized when his attempt was disallowed for offside, but Ahmed Kutucu made a brilliant save from close range.
Seven minutes from time, the tie was resolved. Adama Traore doubled the visitors’ lead and silenced the home crowd with a close-range goal following a rebound.
Coach Okan Buruk made a number of offensive adjustments, including adding Osimhen, but Galatasaray was unable to rally. Genclerbirligi persisted in securing their spot in the semifinals.
The loss puts an abrupt stop to Galatasaray’s cup defense and breaks their remarkable run of ten games without a loss in the competition.
