Post-match brawl in Galatasaray-Fenerbahçe derby could lead to punishments

Galatasaray defeated Fenerbahçe 2-1 at RAMS Park in the Süper Lig to take three points. Played in the ninth week of the league and the 407th meeting between the two clubs, the derby drew attention because of what happened after the match.

Referee Atilla Karaoğlan showed six yellow cards during the regular 90 minutes. Davinson Sanchez and Rafael Leao were booked for Galatasaray, while İrfan Can Kahveci, Milan Skriniar, Nelson Semedo and N'Golo Kante were booked for Fenerbahçe. Tension rose further after the whistle.

Following the final whistle, a argument between Fenerbahçe's Kerem Aktürkoğlu and Galatasaray's Roland Sallai quickly escalated into a fight. With other players joining in, the pitch descended into chaos. Aktürkoğlu and Sallai were shown yellow cards after the incident. Abdülkerim Bardakcı of Galatasaray and Archie Brown of Fenerbahçe were sent off with red cards for physical contact with each other.

The incident has raised questions about the disciplinary process of the Turkish Football Federation. Both clubs are reportedly likely to face additional sanctions. The derby's history of rough play also stands out. In the last 20 matches between the two sides, referees showed 18 red cards and 150 yellow cards. Of those yellow cards, 12 went to Fenerbahçe players and six to Galatasaray players.