The loss came as a shock for the reigning champions, especially as they had comfortably beaten the same opposition just days earlier in Turkish Super League action. Instead, their cup defence ended abruptly, with defensive lapses proving costly at critical moments.
Güvenç, 34, who had been entrusted with all of Galatasaray’s cup fixtures this season and made his 14th appearance overall, endured a night to forget. His first major error came shortly after the restart when he parried a shot into a dangerous area, allowing Fıratcan Üzüm to react quickest and slot home the opening goal in the 51st minute.
The situation worsened as Galatasaray pushed forward in search of an equaliser. From a set-piece, the goalkeeper misjudged a corner delivery, spilling the ball into the path of Adama Traoré, who made no mistake in doubling Gençlerbirliği’s advantage and effectively sealing the upset.
Frustration among sections of the home crowd was evident, with whistles and boos directed at the goalkeeper after the final whistle. Emotion took over moments later, as Güvenç broke down in tears on the pitch and was consoled by teammates.
Amid the backlash, Osimhen—recently returned from injury—moved to publicly defend his teammate, stressing collective responsibility and resilience. Writing on Instagram, he insisted that individual mistakes should not define a player’s contribution.
He described football as a game shaped by highs and lows, adding that what matters most is how players respond and support one another through difficult moments. He also acknowledged fans’ backing despite the disappointment.
Beyond the controversy, Osimhen’s return to action was one of the few positives for Galatasaray on the night, as the club now shifts focus to the closing stages of the domestic league.
Attention quickly turns to a high-stakes Istanbul derby against Fenerbahçe S.K. at RAMS Park on Sunday, a fixture that could prove pivotal in the title race. Galatasaray currently lead the Turkish Super Lig with 71 points, holding a four-point advantage over Fenerbahçe with four matches remaining.