Galatasaray have launched a scathing attack on match officials, accusing referees of evil conduct during their 3-0 victory over arch-rivals Fenerbahçe in the Turkish Süper Lig.
The controversy erupted during Sunday’s heated Istanbul derby, with Galatasaray leading 1-0 at half-time. In a series of posts on X, the club claimed they were denied two clear penalties and suggested deliberate bias from officials.
“Despite these referees, we’re still leading 1-0. We see what you’re doing, your plans, the evil inside you. This order won’t go on like this,” the club stated.
Despite their anger, Galatasaray tightened their grip on the title race with a commanding second-half display. Victor Osimhen opened the scoring, before Barış Alper Yılmaz and Lucas Torreira added further goals to secure the win.
Fenerbahçe’s frustration grew after they missed a first-half penalty and were reduced to 10 men when referee Yasin Kol sent off their goalkeeper.
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The fallout adds to ongoing tensions surrounding officiating in Turkish football. In 2023, referee Halil Umut Meler was assaulted by club president Faruk Koca, prompting a temporary suspension of league matches.
More recently, former Fenerbahçe manager José Mourinho faced sanctions for criticising refereeing standards, while protests and walk-offs by clubs have highlighted growing discontent.
Tensions have also extended to the administrative level, with Galatasaray president Dursun Aydın Özbek announcing a suspension of relations with the Turkish Football Federation.
The federation itself has been under pressure, having previously suspended 149 referees and assistants following investigations into betting-related activities.
With the title race entering its final weeks, Galatasaray’s latest outburst is set to intensify scrutiny on officiating and deepen divisions within Turkish football.
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