An attempt by Fenerbahçe to stop Victor Osimhen from featuring in this weekend Istanbul derby failed yesterday.
Fenerbahçe had officially applied to the Turkish Football Federation (TFF) for the disqualification of Galatasaray striker, Osimhen, from the tie, arguing that the protective arm guard worn by Osimhen poses a risk to the safety of opposing players.
In their submission, Fenerbahçe referenced IFAB regulations and presented a detailed report to support their case.
But Osimhen was cleared to start in the highly anticipated Süper Lig derby against Fenerbahçe following a meeting with head coach Okan Buruk.
The Nigerian forward, who recently returned from an arm injury, will lead the Yellow and Red attack in the crucial Week 31 fixture at Rams Park.
Osimhen sustained the injury during Galatasaray’s Champions League round of 16 clash against Liverpool and subsequently underwent surgery.
He made his comeback in the Turkish Cup against Gençlerbirliği, playing 17 minutes with a protective bandage. Reports from Turkish media indicate that Osimhen felt no pain during his return and communicated his readiness to the technical committee.
Coach Okan Buruk has decided to include Osimhen in the starting XI for the derby, a match that could prove decisive in the championship race. Mauro Icardi is expected to begin on the bench, while the offensive line will also feature Barış Alper, Sane, and Sara.
Osimhen has been in fine form this season, scoring 19 goals and providing seven assists in 30 appearances across all competitions. His availability is a major boost for Galatasaray as they prepare to face their arch-rivals in one of the most important fixtures of the season.
With the championship race hanging in the balance, the outcome of the derby could throw the fight for the title wide open.