Osimhen and Topçu got into a heated argument during Galatasaray’s 1-1 tie with Beşiktaş at RAMS Park. Referee Yasin Kol waved play on after Osimhen appeared to have been fouled in an aerial challenge in the 39th minute. The Nigerian forward, who was upset with the decision, went up to Topçu and appeared to grab him by the neck as players from both teams swiftly stepped in to diffuse the situation.
Since then, the flashpoint has generated a lot of discussion among both fans and commentators. Others justified Osimhen’s response, claiming that he was provoked and that his ferocious emotion was a reflection of his competitive spirit, while others criticized him for losing his cool.
“Zlatan punched teammates, Balotelli fought coaches, Suarez bit humans, and they still played for elite clubs,” Thoysquare said on X. You’re not watching football; instead, you’re watching a fantasy league in your mind if you believe that his attitude is the reason why no major team wants him.
“We are quick to judge and condemn the victim for reacting to an ugly, racial slur while spearing the offender,” Emmanuel Nnechi said, raising the possibility that the Nigerian had been subjected to racial abuse.
“He lost his temper because it’s similar to the foul that made him wear a mask every game,” Escanor continued. He most likely lost his head due to flashbacks.
X user Josh defended Osimhen by citing other well-known celebrities who have gotten into similar fights.
“Osimhen made you all start crying,” he wrote. “Pepe nearly sent Messi to his early grave, Zidane head butted Materazzi, Gatusso shoved the Tottenham manager, Cantona kicked a fan during a game, Hazard kicked a ball boy in the chest, Lee Boyer and Kieron dyer (teammates) traded blows during a game, Luis Suarez bit Ivanovic, and many others.”
“Osimhen’s only ‘crime’ is playing with raw emotion in a sport that keeps feigning civility while celebrating chaos,” tweeted David-Leo Alabi. Football supporters adore passion—until an African displays it. Then all of a sudden there is a “dreadful attitude.”
“When a Black striker shouts back, they see ‘temper,'” he continued. However, it becomes “competitive spirit” when it’s European.
Self-control is important, yes. But let’s not pretend that pride, ego, and adrenaline aren’t the foundation of football. They will label Osimhen weak if he leaves without saying anything. He is considered “out of order” if he defends himself.
He’s not flawless, but let’s not mistake his charisma for lack of discipline. Sometimes, the same fire that wins games can also burn hot. You detest the heat and don’t want to go hungry.
“Ramos, Diego Costa, Casemiro, and Atletico Madrid players all performed worse,” Lamemzy stated. Zidane head butted, and Suarez even bit someone.
All football players experience it; the majority of the best players have performed worse yet are still praised today. You simply want to ruin the reputation of a gifted black man who has put a lot of effort into being what he is today,” Vikel wrote.
After winning all seven of their first league games, Galatasaray’s flawless start to the Turkish Super Lig season came to an end with the draw.
