Jhon Duran saves Fenerbahce with last-gasp equalizer in Turkish derby

A dramatic 95th-minute header from substitute Jhon Duran salvaged a vital point for Fenerbahce in a tense 1-1 draw against arch-rival Galatasaray on Monday. The match, a pivotal clash in the 2025-26 Turkish Super Lig title race, saw league-leader Galatasaray take a first-half lead, only to be denied at the death by Fenerbahce's marquee summer signing. The result at Istanbul's packed Ulker Stadyumu keeps the championship battle intensely close, with Galatasaray just one point ahead of their historic rivals.

Galatasaray's Early Control and Lead

The visitors, Galatasaray, executed their game plan effectively in the first half, controlling periods of play and striking first. German winger Leroy Sane broke the deadlock in the 27th minute, putting the league leaders ahead with a well-taken finish. Fenerbahce struggled to convert possession into clear chances before the break, leaving the home supporters frustrated as their team trailed in one of world football's most heated derbies, historically known as the "Intercontinental Derby".

Fenerbahce's Pressure and Dramatic Climax

The home side emerged with greater urgency after halftime, applying sustained pressure and creating several opportunities. However, a combination of errant finishing and resilient Galatasaray defending seemed destined to hand the visitors all three points. The narrative shifted entirely in the dying moments of stoppage time. Colombian striker Jhon Duran, who joined Fenerbahce on a high-profile loan from Al-Nassr in the summer, rose to meet a cross and powered a header into the net, sparking wild celebrations in the 95th minute.

Impact on the Super Lig Title Race

The last-gasp equalizer has significant implications for the championship. With this draw, Galatasaray's points tally moves to 33 from 14 matches, maintaining their position at the summit. Fenerbahce, now on 32 points, remains hot on their heels in second place. The single-point gap ensures the title race remains wide open, adding even greater importance to future fixtures. For Fenerbahce, the draw felt like a victory, showcasing the immediate impact of their strategic investment in a proven goalscorer like Duran to challenge for domestic supremacy.