Nigerian international Bright Osayi-Samuel is among three Fenerbahce players summoned to a disciplinary hearing by the Turkish Football Federation, announced on Monday, in the aftermath of a confrontation with Trabzonspor fans.
Following Fenerbahce’s 3-2 victory in the Super Lig match on March 17, home fans stormed the pitch, leading to altercations with Fenerbahce players and staff. Goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic was reported to have been punched in the face during the melee.
Osayi-Samuel, aged 26, allegedly punched one of the masked supporters who invaded the pitch, while Dutch defender Jayden Oosterwolde is accused of kicking the same individual. Additionally, a third player and two club employees are also facing disciplinary action for involvement in the altercation, according to the TFF.
The incident drew condemnation from FIFA president Gianni Infantino, who labeled the violence “absolutely unacceptable.”
Following the confrontation, thirteen Trabzonspor supporters were arrested, with five placed in pre-trial detention. This incident is the latest in a series of violent episodes that have marred Turkish football this season.
In previous years, matches between Fenerbahce and Trabzonspor have been similarly disrupted by violence. Notably, a 2016 game was abandoned due to an attack on an assistant referee by a home supporter, while in 2014, a match was called off at half-time after Fenerbahce players were pelted with objects by Trabzonspor fans.
Trabzonspor’s controversies extend beyond on-field altercations, with incidents involving their club president and protests against refereeing decisions, further highlighting the turbulent nature of Turkish football.
(AFP)
