Galatasaray began their Super Lig season in a way that few would have imagined last night against Giresunspor.
The expectation was that Galatasaray would be able to secure the win and open up their campaign in style which, to be fair, did happen. The club is attempting to right the wrongs of last season when they missed out on top-spot to Besiktas by just one goal in a thrilling end to the title race.
This time around they weren’t going to take any chances as they built up a strong 2-0 lead over Giresunspor with two goals just before halftime – with the hosts also picking up a red card.
It all seemed to be going to plan until the 63rd minute when, out of nowhere, Marcao opted to start a fight with teammate Kerem Akturkoglu.
He proceeded to headbutt and punch Akturkoglu to the bemusement of the other Galatasaray players, leading to a sending off that evened up proceedings at 10 men apiece. It didn’t wind up mattering all too much with Gala holding onto their two-goal advantage but moving forward, this is something the manager needs to try and iron out if his side are serious about going after the title.
Turkish football has been known to be a bit lively in years gone by and that goes for what happens on the pitch as well as off of it with the passionate fans these teams have. Alas, Marcao knows better than to conduct himself in this manner, and he’s well aware of the consequences he’ll face.
Galatasaray’s attention will now shift to their Europa League play-off against Randers on Thursday night.
Featured image credit: Getty
