Galatasaray Coach Okan Buruk Laments Osimhen Absence After Draw with Kocaelispor
Galatasaray head coach Okan Buruk has expressed his frustration over the absence of Victor Osimhen following his side’s 1-1 draw against Kocaelispor on Sunday night.
The result dealt a setback to Galatasaray’s pursuit of the Süper Lig title, as they dropped valuable points at Rams Park.
Galatasaray were expected to secure a routine win but failed to impress despite taking the lead in the first half. Leroy Sané put the hosts ahead in the 30th minute, giving the fans hope of a comfortable victory.
However, the home side eased off after the goal and allowed Kocaelispor back into the match. The visitors made their pressure count in the 72nd minute when Bruno Petković scored the equaliser.
Galatasaray tried to respond, but they lacked sharpness in attack. Their play in the final third was poor, with little creativity, as they relied on crosses into the box without success.
Osimhen missed the match due to a forearm injury, and his absence was clearly felt, as Galatasaray lacked a strong presence in attack.
Speaking after the game, Buruk admitted that the Nigerian striker’s absence played a major role in the dropped points.
“Osimhen’s absence is difficult for us. The game with Osimhen is always important and valuable for us,” Buruk said.
Osimhen is expected to return to the squad when Galatasaray face Gençlerbirliği next week. He is also likely to lead the attack in the crucial Istanbul derby against Fenerbahçe on April 26.
