Legendary Turkish goalkeeper Turgay Seren remembered on 5th death anniversary

By Muhammed Enes Calli

ANKARA (AA) - Turkish national team and Galatasaray's legendary goalkeeper Turgay Seren was remembered on Wednesday, his fifth death anniversary.

"We commemorate Turgay Seren, the unforgettable name of Galatasaray and Turkish football history, with respect, love and longing," the Lions said in a statement.

In a separate message, the Turkish Football Federation said: "We commemorate our former national football player Turgay Seren, nicknamed the Berlin Panther, with respect and mercy."

Seren was born on May 15, 1932 in Ankara, the Turkish capital. He made his debut for Galatasaray in a 1-0 win against Vefa S.K. on Oct. 30, 1949, and stayed with the Istanbul powerhouse during his entire 18-year-career.

Having made 405 appearances, Seren helped the Istanbul club lift three Istanbul Professional League and two Turkish Super Lig titles along with three Turkish Cups.

He was given the nickname, Berlin Panther, for his great saves in a friendly match between Turkey and West Germany in 1951, leading his team to a 2-1 win.

Seren played 51 matches for Turkey, including five U-21 team appearances.

He passed away on July 7, 2016 in Istanbul at the age of 84.

The 2016-17 season of Turkish Super Lig season was called the Turgay Seren season in honor of him.