Odemwingie defends Osimhen after Villarreal confrontation

Peter Odemwingie has defended Victor Osimhen following the striker's physical confrontation with a Villarreal player during a pre-season fixture. The former Nigeria international noted that he understands the striker's reaction based on his own professional experience on the pitch.

Speaking on Brila FM, Odemwingie explained that provocations can be particularly frustrating during friendly matches. He suggested that the lack of competitive stakes in such games can make physical provocations more annoying for players.

The incident occurred in the 37th minute of Galatasaray's 2-1 loss to Villarreal. After scoring an equaliser with a header, Osimhen became angry when Mouriño used his body to prevent the striker from reaching a dangerous area inside the penalty box. The Nigerian forward removed his protective face mask and shoved the Uruguayan player to the ground before teammates stepped in to separate them.

Both players received yellow cards from the referee during the encounter. While the referee's intervention on the night concluded the matter, Villarreal coach Iñigo Pérez criticised the striker. Pérez claimed that Osimhen attacked his player without warning and suggested the Super Eagles forward entered the pitch with the intention to fight.

Galatasaray's defeat to the Spanish side marked their third loss during their preparations for the upcoming season.