Osayi-Samuel advocates for stricter regulation after incident during Trabzonspor v Fenerbahce 

Super Eagles full-back Bright Osayi-Samuel has issued a plea for increased player protection in the wake of violent altercations involving fans.

His call comes in response to an unfortunate incident during the clash between Fenerbahçe and Trabzonspor in Turkey before the international break.

Fenerbahçe emerged victorious with a 3-2 win over Trabzonspor during a league fixture on Sunday, March 17, 2023.

This victory narrowed the gap between Fenerbahçe and league leaders Galatasaray to two points, while further distancing Trabzonspor with 30 points.

However, the match was marred by clashes between players and some Trabzonspor fans, prompting Osayi-Samuel and his teammates to defend themselves against the aggression.

Osayi-Samuel, 26, actively participated in the game, playing the full duration and receiving a yellow card eight minutes before the end.

In a conversation with Adepoju Samuel following Nigeria’s match against Mali in Morocco, Osayi-Samuel disclosed further details of the on-field altercation, shedding light on the circumstances leading up to the viral moment on social media.

“I think they should have abandoned the game. Our keeper was hit with an object and he was bleeding. Minutes after, it was a free kick and they scored from it. How can that happen? We had to defend ourselves because it was crazy,” Osayi-Samuel stated.

Despite the appreciation shown by Fenerbahçe fans, including murals honoring his actions, Osayi-Samuel emphasized the need for enhanced protection for players against such incidents.

“It is unacceptable anywhere when it becomes violent and players start fighting back. The players fighting back is justified because some of these fans are armed. If one of our players gets hurt, it’s not just the clubs that would have a problem, but the league as a whole."

"Players wouldn’t want to come to a place where they don’t feel safe and can get hurt. Objects thrown on the pitch are everywhere, not just in Turkey, but when it becomes excessive, the referee has to stop the game,” he added.

Osayi-Samuel notably contributed three goals and one assist in sixteen league games so far this season.

    
Adeyemi Adewale

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