Osayi-Samuel makes quick return to halt Osimhen in explosive Istanbul derby

Super Eagles defender Bright Osayi-Samuel has made a swift return to training, just in time for Fenerbahçe’s heated Istanbul derby against Victor Osimhen’s Galatasaray, Soccernet.ng reports.

The former Queens Park Rangers fullback had been sidelined for three games after picking up a knock, which also ruled him out of international duty for Nigeria’s matches against Benin and Rwanda.

It should be recalled that Osayi-Samuel was initially called up for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers but had to withdraw due to injury, with Taminu Benjamin taking his place in the squad.

Now, with his return just in time for the explosive clash against the Yellow-Reds, the Nigerian winger is preparing to face his countryman in what promises to be a thrilling contest, as both players look to leave their mark on the game.

Osimhen, who is set to miss today’s match against Gaziantep due to registration issues, is expected to make a strong comeback in the derby against Fenerbahçe and will be eager to make a significant impact.

On the other side of the pitch, Osayi-Samuel will be determined to halt his fellow Nigerian from influencing the game, while also solidifying his return to the squad.

Fenerbahçe currently sit at the top of the Super Lig table with 13 points, but if Galatasaray win their outstanding match against Gaziantep, they could leapfrog their rivals to lead by two points ahead of the derby clash.

Ayomide Oguntimehin

Ayomide Oguntimehin is a CAF-accredited sports journalist and an Editor at Soccernet.ng, with a proven track record in conducting interviews with Super Eagles stars such as William Troost-Ekong, Taiwo Awoniyi, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Ademola Lookman, and many others. He has also made a significant impact in breaking transfer news stories.

Grounded in video editing, video journalism, social media management, and content strategy, Ayomide brings a wealth of expertise to his work.

With a Bachelor’s degree in English Language from Adeyemi College of Education and a Master’s Degree in School Library and Media Technology from the University of Ibadan, Ayomide is well-prepared to excel in the field.