Galatasaray smash Kasimpasa without Victor Osimhen

Galatasaray delivered a statement performance at RAMS Park today, crushing Kasımpsa 3-0 without absent striker Victor Osimhen and proving their championship credentials extend far beyond their Nigerian talisman.

With Osimhen away at AFCON 2025, many predicted Galatasaray would struggle for goals. 

Instead, they produced perhaps their most complete performance of the season, dismantling opponents with fluid attacking play that suggests this squad has firepower in abundance.

Yunus Akgun opened the scoring after just 10 minutes, finishing off a brilliant solo run from Barış Alper Yılmaz, who surged from his own half into the penalty area before cutting back perfectly. It set the tone for total dominance.

Galatasaray controlled 78% of possession in the first half, with Kasımpaşa failing to register a single shot on target. İlkay Gundogan orchestrated proceedings from midfield while Mauro Icardi led the line with predatory instincts, his movement constantly stretching the defense. 

Two more clinical finishes sealed a comprehensive victory, though goalkeeper Gianniotis prevented an even heavier defeat with several crucial saves.

The win sends Galatasaray into the winter break atop the Trendyol Super Lig with 42 points, three clear of Fenerbahçe. More significantly, it demonstrates squad depth that could prove decisive in the title race.

For Osimhen, this result could shift the narrative. The Nigerian will return from international duty to find teammates who just proved they can win emphatically without him. 

Manager Okan Buruk has discovered tactical versatility: with Osimhen, a guaranteed focal point; without him, fluid unpredictability.

The message from RAMS Park is clear: Galatasaray's championship challenge doesn't depend on one player. This is a complete squad, and today they proved they have the depth to go all the way.