Galatasaray began their Turkish Super Lig title defence with a 3-0 win over Gaziantep on Friday night.
The defending champions did it without two of their biggest names, Victor Osimhen and Mauro Icardi, who were both missing from the squad list.
Even without them, Galatasaray dominated from start to finish.
From the first whistle, the visitors pressed high and moved the ball quickly. Gaziantep could not cope, and just ten minutes in, they conceded a penalty after a foul on Roland Sallai.
With Osimhen absent, Baris Alper Yilmaz stepped up and calmly scored from the spot.
Only six minutes later, Galatasaray doubled their lead. Yilmaz, instead of taking a shot himself, set up new signing Eren Elmali, who tapped the ball into the net from close range.
Penalties and Missed Chances
Leroy Sane had a big chance to make it three before the break but fired high and wide after a good pass left him one-on-one with the goalkeeper.
Gaziantep’s night got worse when they gave away another penalty after Sallai was tripped in the box. Yilmaz converted again, making it 3-0 before half time.
In the second half, Galatasaray stayed in control. Gaziantep’s goalkeeper Mustafa Bozan was sent off for handling the ball outside the box, giving the visitors a man advantage.
Despite the extra space, Galatasaray could not add to their tally. The match ended with a comfortable three-goal win.
Osimhen’s Message from Afar
Victor Osimhen did not play due to missing preseason amid questions about his future.
Still, he made sure fans knew he was watching. The Super Eagles striker posted a video of himself celebrating from home while Elmali scored Galatasaray’s second goal, adding the caption, “Big mood, we keep going!”
His gesture showed his support for the team even while away from the pitch.
Galatasaray will face Fatih Karagumruk at Rams Park next Saturday, and Osimhen is expected to be available for that game.
