Osimhen Cleared To Face Fenerbahçe In Istanbul Derby After Injury Concern Dispute

Victor Osimhen has been cleared to feature in Sunday’s highly anticipated Istanbul derby between Galatasaray and Fenerbahçe after concerns were raised over a protective arm brace he wore during midweek action.

The Nigerian striker had sparked anxiety among Fenerbahçe officials after appearing with the brace in Galatasaray’s Turkish Cup defeat to Gençlerbirliği on Wednesday. The club subsequently lodged an official complaint with the Turkish Football Federation, arguing that the equipment could pose a safety risk to opposing players.

However, the protest was dismissed after authorities confirmed that the brace was medically prescribed and approved following consultation with relevant football officials.

The decision clears the way for Osimhen to play in one of the most decisive fixtures of the Turkish Süper Lig season. Galatasaray currently lead the table by four points ahead of second-placed Fenerbahçe, making Sunday’s clash potentially title-defining.

The previous meeting between both sides ended in a 1-1 draw earlier in the season, underlining how tightly contested the rivalry has been.

Osimhen has been in strong form since joining Galatasaray, scoring 12 goals and providing four assists in 19 league appearances for the club this campaign