By Can Erozden
Galatasaray forward Kerem Akturkoglu, who scored the equalizer against Manchester United on Wednesday evening, dedicated his goal to the war-hit children in Palestine.
"I dedicate this goal to all the children in Palestine who deserve a future filled with hope and peace," Akturkoglu, 25, said on X.
"Their courage and resilience inspire me on the field. You are always in our hearts. We haven't forgotten you, we never will," the Galatasaray and Türkiye regular added.
Israel launched a massive military campaign in the Gaza Strip following a cross-border attack by Hamas on Oct. 7.
It has since killed over 15,000 people, including 6,150 children and 4,000 women, according to health authorities in the enclave. The official Israeli death toll stands at 1,200.
Thursday morning, Israel and Hamas agreed to extend the humanitarian pause in the Gaza Strip for another day to continue releasing hostages. The humanitarian pause was set to end on Thursday morning. Since the initial pause began last week, 66 Israeli prisoners have been released over the course of six days in exchange for 210 Palestinians.
On Wednesday, Akturkoglu, a Galatasaray wing-forward since 2020, came off the bench to notch his club's third goal with a ferocious right-footed strike in the 71st minute to level the showdown in Istanbul.
Galatasaray staged a comeback in a 3-3 draw at home against Manchester United in week five of the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday.
Erik ten Hag's Man Utd, who needed a win in Istanbul, stayed at the bottom of Group A with four points.
Copenhagen and Galatasaray are on five points each before the final matchday in December.
Bayern Munich won the group as they have 13 points in five matches.
In the next and final fixture of the group, Man Utd will host already-qualified Bayern Munich at Old Trafford on Dec. 12. Galatasaray will visit Copenhagen.
Copenhagen, Galatasaray and Man Utd are battling for the runners-up position.