The Egyptian defender played the whole 90 minutes and was instrumental in helping Eskisehirspor keep a clean sheet despite their numerical disadvantage, after the dismissal of Safet Nadarevic early in the second period.

"We didn't expect to win at Galatasaray. They are in contention for the league title and defeating them seemed way far-fetched," Al-Saqqa said in quotes released to FilGoal.com.

"The numerical disadvantage made our mission even harder, we barely survived their onslaught."

Eskisehirspor's win at Galatasaray was the first ever on all Turkish fronts, which makes the narrow victory more emphatic.

Egypt fold

Al-Saqqa, 35, revealed that he's eager to return to Egypt fold, saying he's doing his best with Eskisehirspor to earn a call-up for Hassan Shehata's side.

"I regularly feature in the Turkish League and play all games without getting substituted," he said.

"I have been praised by Turkish media, and Eskisehirspor coaching staff are happy with my performance as well.

"But eventually I respect all the decisions of Egypt's technical staff."

According to the veteran sweeper, Shehata would name him in the Pharaohs' squad should he keep up his level.