Galatasaray defeated İstanbul Başakşehir 3-2 in a thrilling fourth-round Süper Lig clash. Gabriel Sara scored a dramatic 90th-minute winner after star striker Victor Osimhen exited early with a suspected muscular injury.
As reported by BeIN Sports, this victory maintains Galatasaray's unbeaten start to the season. The club now sits top of the table with 10 points from four matches, holding a one-point lead over Beşiktaş. With 12 goals scored and 6 conceded, their goal difference stands at +6. The team's position in the standings and upcoming fixture list are shaped by this form.
What did Osimhen's star display and injury mean?
Victor Osimhen was a whirlwind in the first half. The Nigerian forward netted his sixth goal in four league matches and provided two assists before his night ended prematurely. He was forced off in the 33rd minute with a suspected muscular issue, causing concern for the coaching staff and fans. Osimhen now joins El Chadaille Bitshiabu, Mario Lemina, and Wilfried Singo on the treatment table. The team's injury status is a critical concern ahead of their midweek European fixture.
How did Rafael Leão fare on his debut?
Portuguese star Rafael Leão made his first appearance for Galatasaray in this match. Leão's presence added dynamism to the attacking line. A harsh foul on him became one of the match's turning points. İstanbul Başakşehir's Umut Bozok received a straight red card for his challenge on Leão, reducing his side to ten men. This moment significantly altered the game's tempo and balance.
How did the match's dramatic finale unfold?
The encounter featured five goals, a disallowed effort, red cards, and a debut. İstanbul Başakşehir lost another player to a second yellow card, finishing the match with nine men. The score was locked at 2-2 as the clock ticked into the final minutes. Galatasaray increased the pressure and found the breakthrough in the 90th minute. Brazilian midfielder Gabriel Sara fired home the goal that secured all three points, sending the home supporters into raptures.
What's next on Galatasaray's schedule?
This important league win provides a morale boost as Galatasaray start a demanding schedule. The team travels to face Sporting CP in the Champions League this Wednesday, a major early-season test. Their next league assignment is at home against 11th-placed Çaykur Rizespor on December 6, 2026. The squad's depth will be tested during this busy period. Galatasaray will begin their match against Sporting CP without key figures Osimhen, Lemina, Bitshiabu, and Singo.
