Galatasaray intensified their criticism of match officials by accusing referees of having “evil inside” them during their 3-0 win over Fenerbahce. The comments were posted on social media during the game, shortly after the club had already cut ties with the Turkish Football Federation.
Galatasaray intensified their criticism of match officials by accusing referees of having “evil inside” them during their 3-0 win over Fenerbahce. The comments were posted on social media during the game, shortly after the club had already cut ties with the Turkish Football Federation.
At the break, with Galatasaray leading 1-0, the club expressed frustration over decisions they believed went against them, including two penalty claims that were not awarded. In their messages, they claimed they were still ahead despite the officiating and suggested there was intent behind the decisions.
The match itself saw Victor Osimhen open the scoring before further goals from Baris Yilmaz and Lucas Torreira secured the victory. The result moved Galatasaray seven points clear at the top of the table with three matches remaining.
Fenerbahce had a chance to change the course of the game but failed to convert a penalty in the first half. Their situation worsened later when goalkeeper Ederson was sent off by referee Yasin Kol, leaving the team with 10 players.
The derby unfolded in a tense atmosphere, reflecting broader tensions that have surrounded refereeing decisions in Turkish football in recent seasons. Galatasaray’s public criticism added further intensity to an already heated rivalry.
Just days earlier, club president Dursun Aydin Ozbek had announced that all communication with the national federation under its current leadership had been suspended, escalating the dispute.
Controversy involving referees has been a recurring issue in the Turkish top division. In 2023, Halil Umut Meler was physically attacked by Faruk Koca, an incident that led to a temporary halt of the league.
The following year, former Fenerbahce manager Jose Mourinho received a one-match suspension and a fine after questioning the neutrality of officials. There have also been several occasions where teams left the pitch in protest over refereeing calls.
In addition, the Turkish Football Federation suspended 149 referees and assistants last year after an inquiry revealed that many officials held betting accounts, further highlighting governance concerns within the sport.
