Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen has found strong backing from sections of football fans after a fiery on-field confrontation with Emirhan Topçu during Galatasaray’s 1–1 draw with Beşiktaş in the Turkish Super Lig on Saturday.
The tense incident unfolded in the 39th minute at RAMS Park when Osimhen appeared to be fouled in an aerial duel, but referee Yasin Kol waved play on. Frustrated, the Super Eagles star confronted Topçu and briefly grabbed him by the neck before teammates from both sides intervened.
The clash has sparked widespread debate, with some critics questioning Osimhen’s composure while others defended him, citing provocation, possible racial abuse, and the striker’s intense competitive edge.
On X, fans drew comparisons with global stars who had similar flashpoints. One user, Thoysquare, noted: “Zlatan punched teammates, Balotelli fought coaches, Suarez bit opponents, and they still played for elite clubs. If you think attitude is why no big team wants him, you’re watching fantasy football in your head.”
Another, Emmanuel Nnechi, suggested Osimhen may have reacted to a racial slur, while Escanor argued the forward could have been triggered by memories of the injury that forced him to wear a protective mask.
Other supporters pointed to past incidents involving football legends, from Zidane’s headbutt on Materazzi to Cantona’s infamous fan kick, insisting Osimhen was being unfairly targeted.
David-Leo Alabi added: “Fans love passion until it’s an African showing it. Then suddenly it’s called ‘bad attitude.’ The same fire that wins games sometimes burns hot—you can’t want the hunger and hate the heat.”
Many fans echoed the sentiment that players such as Ramos, Diego Costa, and Casemiro had committed worse infractions and still thrived at the top level.
The draw, meanwhile, ended Galatasaray’s perfect start to the season after seven straight league victories.
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