Galatasaray Salvage Late Draw Against Gaziantep FK
A late equalizer spared them from a damaging slip at home. Galatasaray reacted just in time to protect their place at the top.
A Tough Night After Super Cup Setback
Still feeling the effects of their Turkish Super Cup defeat to Fenerbahçe, Galatasaray dropped unexpected points at home, settling for a 1-1 draw against Gaziantep FK on Matchday 18 of the Turkish Super Lig.
With a demanding schedule ahead, the Istanbul side knew they needed a response, but the evening turned into a frustrating test of patience.
Control Without a Cutting Edge
Without Victor Osimhen, away on international duty with Nigeria at the Africa Cup of Nations, but with Mauro Icardi leading the line, Galatasaray dominated possession from the opening whistle.
They dictated tempo and spent long stretches in the attacking half, yet clear chances were scarce. The first half slipped by with plenty of control but little end product.
Gaziantep Land the First Punch
The second half followed a similar pattern until the match was suddenly turned on its head. In one of their rare forward moves, Mohamed Bayo punished a defensive lapse and made it 0-1 in the 73rd minute, stunning the home crowd.
The goal raised immediate concerns, especially with Fenerbahçe lurking close behind in the title race.
Late Push Brings Timely Reward
As the clock ticked down and pressure mounted, Galatasaray finally found a breakthrough. In the 84th minute, Baris Yilmaz struck to level the match, rescuing a point and preventing only their second league defeat of the season.
It was not the dominant finish they hoped for, but it was enough to steady the ship in the closing moments.
Top Spot Secured, Warning Issued
The draw keeps Galatasaray in first place with 43 points, while Fenerbahçe sit second on 39, with a game in hand. Gaziantep FK remain mid-table with 24 points.
The lead remains intact, but the margin for error is shrinking, and the title race is very much alive.
