The Digest:
Besiktas head coach Sergen Yalçın has claimed Victor Osimhen was "lucky to escape" a red card during Galatasaray's 1-0 derby victory, as he launched a blistering attack on refereeing standards. Osimhen scored the decisive goal just before half-time but had received an early yellow card in the sixth minute. Yalçın argued the Nigerian striker should have received a second yellow for deliberately kicking the ball away after a stoppage. "Osimhen should have been sent off with a second yellow card, that's for sure," Yalçın told the club's official website. He contrasted the decision with other matches where players were sent off early, questioning: "How is this game going to be played? In my opinion, football has become too political." Yalçın also claimed Galatasaray's Sane should have been sent off in the 20th minute.
Key Points
- Yalçın's "too political" accusation adds to controversy in Turkish football.
- Osimhen's early booking and decisive goal made him a focal point.
- The contrast with other matches (Trabzon, Fenerbahçe) suggests perceived inconsistency.
- VAR's role is questioned despite its presence.
- The win keeps Galatasaray's title charge on track.
Sources: Club Website Interview
