Victor Osimhen’s double and Akgun’s stunning opener seal victory for Galatasaray as 10-man Tottenham struggles in Istanbul
Tottenham Hotspur’s hopes of topping their Europa League group took a hit after a 3-2 defeat to Galatasaray in an intense match at Istanbul’s RAMS Park. Spurs, who were hoping to build on recent domestic successes, were undone by a commanding performance from Victor Osimhen, on loan from Napoli, who scored twice. Yunus Akgun also added to the scoreline with a memorable goal, while Tottenham’s teenager Will Lankshear had a bittersweet evening, scoring his first goal before receiving a red card.
Galatasaray started strong and took an early lead when Akgun unleashed a powerful half-volley that soared into the top corner. Tottenham quickly responded, with Lankshear scoring his debut goal for Spurs, thanks to persistence from Son Heung-min and a well-placed cross by Brennan Johnson. However, the celebration was short-lived. A mistake in Spurs’ defense allowed Osimhen to pounce, scoring his first goal to put Galatasaray back in control just before halftime.
The second half saw Osimhen double his tally with a clinical header, following a pinpoint cross from Dries Mertens. Spurs’ efforts to rally were made more challenging when Lankshear was sent off after receiving a second yellow card. Substitute Dominic Solanke managed to pull one back with a clever backheeled finish, keeping the visitors within reach, but the 10-man Tottenham team couldn’t keep up with Galatasaray’s relentless pressure.
Errors from Tottenham’s defense, which was missing key players Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven due to injury, allowed the Turkish side several chances. Spurs’ backup goalkeeper, Fraser Forster, kept his team in the game with multiple saves but couldn’t prevent the eventual defeat.
Postecoglou’s young and rotated squad showed moments of resilience, yet they ultimately crumbled under the pressure of Galatasaray’s home crowd. The result leaves Spurs needing to regroup quickly, with challenging fixtures against Roma and Rangers approaching, while Galatasaray temporarily tops the group with 10 points.
Player of the Match – Victor Osimhen
Osimhen was a constant threat to Spurs’ defense, showcasing his strength and poise in front of goal. His two well-taken goals highlighted his finishing prowess, and he came close to a hat-trick. His performance earned him well-deserved praise as he led Galatasaray to victory.
Player Ratings
Galatasaray: Muslera 6, Ayhan 6, Sanchez 6, Bardakci 6, Yilmaz 7, Torreira 7, Sara 7, Akgun 7, Mertens 8, Osimhen 9, Icardi 7. Subs: Ziyech 6, Jelert 6, Demirbay 6, Batshuayi 6, Kutlu 6.
Tottenham: Forster 7, Porro 6, Dragusin 4, Davies 5, Gray 5, Bergvall 5, Bissouma 5, Maddison 5, Johnson 6, Lankshear 6, Son 6. Subs: Kulusevski 6, Bentancur 6, Solanke 6, Sarr 6.
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