What happened in Turkish football today? 27/02/2018

Galatasaray has managed to win away game without great game. 

Galatasaray has managed to an important away game against Akhisarspor not only because it got small advantage at the Turkish Cup semi-final tie hence being closer to the final but also it has won an away game which it had trouble to achieve during this season.

Looking at the game, Galatasaray didnt really provide a very attacking game which we are used from this side at home ground and hence it could be argued that there were signs of the away game syndrome which without trouble would been affected into the way team performed. Stating that, with Fatih Terim going through rotation at the squad as it was semi-final game has been seen as surprise taking its away game performance. One of the worrying aspects of the game has been shoulder injury of Fernando Muslera which has provided some difficult time for him and even through he didnt want to be substituted, he did provide a risk for a team as he could conceded goal as Akhisarspor has been seeking for a win today. Still, Galatasaray even through didnt provide its best football it did provide some number of chances and has managed to win game without providing great game.

Akhisarspor did start game in a manner which has provided an image that it wanted to win game and has provided number of the chances but didnt keep it too high and without dominating game showing respect to Galatasaray which is understandable but in other hand it could provide some risks for Turkish Cup game especially at home. The factor of aiming to defend its draw result and being worried that opponent could score goal without attacking their opponents as their were poor has provided some vulnerability which Galatasaray used. Meanwhile, Akhisarspor head coach Okan Buruk needs to control his nerves as he has once again been send to stands due of strong protests.

Galatasaray has got an important win against Akhisarspor at away game and has got win with providing win with not great performance which is good side. Right now Galatasaray would aim for win against struggling Karabukspor and if it manage it might solve an away game issue with 2 games back to back.

Alanyaspor has appointed Mesut Bakkal until end of the season.

Alanyaspor has appointed coach Mesut Bakkal as club's new head coach after it has sacked Hikmet Karaman on previous day as club is showing poor performance since the period it has sold Vagner Love and with selling such a player it was expected to lead for such decline.

Therefore, it is hard to criticise Hikmet Karaman in one way as it has a player which was main provider of the points to the team with his goals and with taking their rest of the squad it would be reasonably not to expect great performance for them. But in same time, it was role of Hikmet Karaman to find solutions for such an issue with existing squad and he didnt manage that. Now it has become role of Mesut Bakkal to look for solutions and it would not be an easy task as this team doesnt have great attackers and only player which could be qualified as star is Emre Akbaba, who is expected to be sold in summer transfer window. Right now Bakkal aim to move team forward and make sure it doesnt get relegated during this season and one thing he needs to achieve is to provide belief and also raise level of performance of the team.

It will not be an easy task for Mesut Bakkal but as being coach at this calibre and working with teams in this level in his career he would be able and expected to use his experience during this season.

Bursaspor head coach Paul Le Guen needs urgently to find solutions for team's poor performance. 

Another coach who seems to have difficult days right now without doubt is being Bursaspor head coach Paul Le Guen whose team is showing very poor performance during 2nd half of the season without winning any games and his future is being questioned.

In fact, administration of the club did meet yesterday to discuss his future at the team and has come to the conclusion that he should be staying at the team as sacking coach in this stage of the league would only provide harm and this thinking does make sense as it could be hard to find good replacement as their would be looking for very experienced coach. However, it is talked that Paul Le Guen doesnt have enough time at the team as loss and poor performance against Kasimpasa during Super League 24th week could lead him for sacking for him and that game would be his last chance. Regardless that is case or not it is clear that Bursaspor needs to win that game to get motivation for upcoming weeks as those critical weeks does come up and team needs to reduce its chances to find itself at relegation area.

Hence, Paul Le Guen without doubt needs urgently to find ways to improve performance of the team if he wants to stay at club and also have good end of the season at the team as right now team is in very situation.

Results: 
Turkish Cup, semi-final, 1st leg:
Akhisarspor 2:1 Galatasaray

In other news:

- Fenerbahce head coach Aykut Kocaman and Besiktas head coach Senol Gunes has recieved 50,000 TL from PFDK for anti-sportmanship statements.

- PFDK referrals:
- Bursaspor and Fenerbahce has been referred for behaviour of fans and events at the field.
- Kayserispor and Goztepe has been referred for events at the field
- Alanyaspor has been referred for anti-sportmanship behaviour as 6 players got cards and events at the field.
- Alanyaspor administrator Bilal Gomec has been referred for anti-sportmanship actions.
- Besiktas has been referred for behaviour of fans, events at field and not leaving stairs empty.
- Fenerbahce player Fernandao has been referred for behaviour
- Basaksehirspor has been referred for event for behaviour of fans.

- TFF has announced referee of Turkish Cup semi-final 1st leg game between Besiktas and Fenerbahce as Firat Aydinus.

- Trabzonspor player Hugo Rodallega expects to be starting against Besiktas during Super League 24th week game.

- Osmanlispor players Numan Curuksu and Serdar Gurler has resumed training sessions after recovering from injury.

- Galatasaray are interested to transfer Kasimpasa player Trezeguet.

- Galatasaray in their defence at UEFA regarding of FFP is to provide an offer of making transfer budget same as their gain from transfers.

- Monaco has started transfer negotiations with Benfica player Anderson Talisca who is currently loaned to Besiktas.

What happened in Turkish football today? 26/02/2018

Besiktas has improved as game progressed against Fenerbahce

Besiktas has managed to win an important game at its home ground against in-form opponent Fenerbahce with 3:1 scoreline and despite of providing bad start for the game it has dominated game after 20th minute.

In fact, the game could be seen in the way that Fenerbahce has started game in good form while Besiktas has been under its performance however things has changed as game progressed with Besiktas dominating whole field while Fenerbahce was playing misorganised game at the end of the game. It needs to be stated that role of Senol Gunes for this result has been played an important role as changes during the game has led for Besiktas to control game and in addition to that Fenerbahce style of play has allowed Besiktas to make its changes more effective with their performance. Without doubt main star of the game has been Ricardo Quaresma with his two goals scored and also overall performance. Besiktas would now seek to repeat this performance without doubt again during Turkish Cup semi-final 1st leg game on 1st March.

Besiktas did find an important win which has put them inside league title race but with this result it has also made league more exciting as it has returned into fight for title among 4 teams even through Galatasaray and Basaksehirspor would be glad with this result.

While Aykut Kocaman didnt have any alternatives for Senol Gunes changes

In other hand, Fenerbahce has provided a very dominant start and has shown that their had prepared to game in much better compare to their opponents with tactically but as things has been changed and Senol Gunes introduced changes, Aykut Kocaman has lost control of the game.

Prior to game, even through it would be normal for Fenerbahce to lose game, it was expected for them to show decent performance due of better morale and also great performance lately and also dominance at derby games in recent pasts. However, even through it did achieve to show this aspects in start of the game, after 20th minute it start losing control of ball, game and also possibly psychological focus which has led them to make simple mistakes and not control ball anymore. This performance did provide some worrying images and towards end it has lost all control of the game. It is clear that Aykut Kocaman didnt have much alternatives and strangely has stated that an early goal did more harm to them after game. Meanwhile, Fernandao goal was an offside by 79 cm which has also been admitted by Aykut Kocaman after game.

Again, Fenerbahce didnt lose its position at the title race and with 11 weeks left until end of the season and same points with Besiktas their would be many turns until end and hence both sides have equal chances for league title. But right now Fenerbahce would aim for revenge at Turkish Cup tie.

Akhisarspor would be seeking for advantage scoreline against Galatasaray at 1st leg. 

Turkish Cup is coming to most crucial and also exciting stages, as both Galatasaray and Akhisarspor during Turkish Cup semi-final 1st leg game would be looking for an advantage scoreline to get to the final stage of the tournament.

Galatasaray as expected would be coming out as favourite even through its not that straight forward as it would be playing its game away and its form at away games also been present at Turkish Cup games. Taking account that, Akhisarspor are aware that their are one step closer for final it would aim to provide big surprise both at 1st leg and also at whole tie. Without doubt Akhisarspor would come out with different motivation for game and would playing much more attacking game. Still, Galatasaray with quality factor would aim for a win without doubt as their are one step closer for cup and are expected to come out first time with strong squad at Turkish Cup this season.

It would be interesting how team would compete at away game as Akhisarspor aware of this issue and also having opportunity for final would respond for the game.

Results:
Turkish Super League, 23rd week:
Basaksehirspor 1:1 Genclerbirligi

Schedule:
Turkish Cup, semi-final, 1st leg
20:30 Akhisarspor - Galatasaray

In other news:

- TFF has announced that referee of Turkish Cup semi-final 1st leg game between Akhisarspor and Galatasaray will be Yasar Kemal Ugurlu.

- Alanyaspor has terminated contract with its head coach Hikmet Karaman: 

- Bursaspor has decided to continue with its head coach Paul Le Guen.

- Konyaspor has terminated contract with its player Ali Camdali for anti-sportmanship behaviour at the club

- Fenerbahce has opened criminal case against Besiktas fan club Carsi for the messages given about their coach Aykut Kocaman following Super League 23rd week game

- Basaksehirspor player Arda Turan has become injured and will not be able to play Super League 23rd week game against Genclerbirligi.

- 6,910 Galatasaray members did pay their dues while 2,900 members are expected to pay in upcoming 2 days.

- Bursaspor player Bogdan Stancu didnt attend today's training session due of injury. Meanwhile, club players Baris Yardimci and Alper Ademoglu had heated argument during training.

- Bursaspor game against Kayserispor during Super League 24th week game would be seen as last chance for Paul Le Guen regarding his future at club.

- Alanyaspor are interested to appoint coach Mesut Bakkal as club's head coach.

What happened in Turkish football today? 25/02/2018

Besiktas had much better control while Fenerbahce has been all over place as game progressed. 

Besiktas has managed to win very crucial Super League game against Fenerbahce as it has won game with 3:1 scoreline and has provided pretty dominating game especially during 2nd half. In other hand, Fenerbahce had very good start of the game but as game progressed has lost entire control of the game with simple mistakes.

Besiktas was aware that it has come out to the Super League 23rd week game which it needed to win or otherwise their chances for league title would be being very vague as point difference with Galatasaray would been 6 points. With taking this around Fenerbahce goal from Fernandao wasnt good news for them and it did affect their performance of 1st leg as it wasnt able to raise their level of performance and some aftermath of Bayern Munich even through not very much did show them visible during game. However, Besiktas has come to their senses sort of speak at 2nd half with possible motivational talk from Senol Gunes at changing room. Domagoj Vida goal was crucial one during game and as Besiktas was taking around the game Ricardo Quaresma has found 2 goals making scoreline 3:1.

Meanwhile, Fenerbahce did start game in good manner showing some control of the game and controlling ball and finding goal, even through there is argument that position was an offside. However, as game progresses Fenerbahce has firstly being playing too much at the back of the field and not having control of the game very well. With playing defence game Fenerbahce in 2nd half has lost all contol of the ball with mistakes during passes, taking ball from Besiktas and look all around places. As game progressed, it was visible that Fenerbahce would have trouble to turn game around after 2:1 as mistakes has been raised and their looked weaker and weaker as game progressed.

Besiktas did show good recovery from losing Bayern Munich with 5:0 scoreline and has got well-deserved win while Fenerbahce has chance to get revenge for today results again in Besiktas on 1st March at Turkish Cup semi-final 1st leg game.

Win against Alanyaspor could provide confidence for rest of season for Trabzonspor

After drawing 5 games back to back at the league and losing to Basaksehirspor during last week, Trabzonspor has finally won a game as it has played Alanyaspor with 2:1 scoreline and has got chance to raise up at the table at least for Europa League spot.

It needs to be still state that during most part of the game, more precise for about an hour, Alanyaspor was leaidng game as it has found an early goal against their opponent and has managed to keep game at control even through Trabzonspor has been more dominating game. With Abdulkadir Omur meanwhile finding 2nd goal, it is still visible that Turkish player, with lion share been taken by Burak Yilmaz, has been dominating by them and team does good job to keep national players at good form.
However, as been stated Burak Yilmaz is been main goalscorer of the team and for him to recieve yellow card which means he would be missing Besiktas game could provide into attacking performance against strong opponents during next week game. Still, with Trabzonspor getting its 1st win of 2018 it would be able to get much needed motivation for rest of the games in this season.

Trabzonspor would be playing against Besiktas during next week and with Besiktas without doubt having difficult schedule, Trabzonspor could use its opportunity from tired opponents.

Unfair refereeing debate is been heated at Turkish football once again. 

Talks about referees performances has been taken place once again at the Turkish football as we are getting into the point where every game is getting important and we are having very exciting title race as 4 teams are at the middle of the fight for title.

Those teams coaches and administration have been stated that their dont mind for mistakes to be taking place but mainly complain about continuity arguing that in same game same referee gives them foul or card for one incident but ignores opponents same behaviour. Quite reasonably, those personalities argue that this leads game to be played in unequal manner and have direct impact to scoreline of the game. This talks of course has been taken for long time in Turkish and in fact across world where there is expectation for referees to have standards to follow. Meanwhile, as it is known both Besiktas head coach Senol Gunes and Fenerbahce coach Aykut Kocaman has been referred to PFDK for their comments prior to today's derby game, which does show that TFF are unhappy for this arguments to take into such matter.

What is crucial here without doubt for TFF, Central Referee Committee and referees themselves to focus more into this question as their are been cases where mistakes of referees has been made. There must be a way to improve performance of referees and reduce mistakes.

Results:
Turkish Super League, 23rd week:
Osmanlispor 0:0 Antalyaspor
Yeni Malatyaspor 3:1 Karabukspor
Goztepe 1:0 Sivasspor
Besiktas 3:1 Fenerbahce

Schedule:
Turkish Super League, 23rd week:
20:00 Basaksehirspor - Genclerbirligi

In other news:

- TFF are planning to give morale visit to soldiers at Turkey-Syria border due of on-going operation at Afrin.

- Watford and West Ham United are interested to transfer Inter Milan player Yuto Nagatomo who is currently loaned to Galatasaray.

- Everton are interested to transfer Galatasaray player Garry Rodrigues

What happened in Turkish football today? 24/02/2018

Trabzonspor has won its 1st game for 2018. 

Trabzonspor has finally won its 1st game of 2018, beating Alanyaspor even through it was losing for most part of the game but has managed to show great character and comeback and surely has gained motivation which it was lacking.

As, Alanyaspor player Emre Akbaba has found an early goal against Trabzonspor it was worried that Trabzonspor would carry on its poor performance as Riza Calimbay has stated several times that it would be seeking for a win and aiming to solve its lack of goals. Prior to 69th minute goal from Burak Yilmaz even through he did find number of good chances it wasnt able to able to get control of the game and as he found goal it was visible that team does have some issues with other players being involved. Certainly winning goal from Abdulkadir Omur would make Calimbay satisfied as he has gained motivation especially when that goal costed them a win. Still, this performance does raise some questions regarding of Trabzonspor but it was important to win to get motivation especially prior to Besiktas game.

Alanyaspor being aware that Trabzonspor does have some issues as team right now tried to use its opportunity and has provided pretty attacking game for the game probably most forward seeking since Vagner Love has left team. It needs to be stated Alanyaspor attitude to game has been good and it needs to carry on like that.

Trabzonspor has won an important game for them for the aims for this season and also regain confidence and motivation after not being able to win games. Now it would look forward for Besiktas game which would have 2 games against Fenerbahce this week and would feel tired for sure.

Galatasaray has shown dominating game against Bursaspor

Galatasaray has managed to confident win against Bursaspor with 5:0 scoreline during Super League 23rd week game in such important win with Bafetembi Gomis playing most important role as he provided hattrick.

Even through it was expected for Bursaspor to get a comfortable win with taking account that their didnt win single game during this calendar year it was still expected for Galatasaray to have some problems due of pressure coming from last week game. However, it happened total opposite as Galatasaray has dominated from start to an end. Meanwhile, hat-trick of Gomis has shown once again that he is in good condition following an incident with his health which took place last week. Another factor was that their made great understanding with Garry Rodrigues who among scoring goals has provided great assists during game and are dominated game and played most important role for such a win.

With following win Galatasaray has chance to end this week as leaders as would be waiting for results from Fenerbahce and Besiktas games, but as team their are would now focus to Turkish Cup semi-final game against Akhisarspor.

Both Besiktas and Fenerbahce would only aim for win. 

Super League 23rd week derby game between Besiktas and Fenerbahce outcome would not having impact to both teams but also direct factor for title race with both teams fighting for league title with Besiktas needing to win game.

This is being among games which is specifically difficult to state favourite game not only its being derby but also some factors. However, when judging both sides strengths and weaknesses in current position Fenerbahce are coming out with better chance. This is been seen from statistically as recent results especially during 2018 has put team at 1st position and also its taken 1st place in table with away games. Coming to Besiktas it is dominating at home ground and its strong supporters could provide pressure to Fenerbahce players. With Besiktas also losing to Bayern Munich with 5:0 scoreline during Champions League last 16 1st leg game it would also be seen how game would affect to the motivation and focus where it would either be morally affected or provide more fighting spirit. Without doubt absence of Talisca and Pepe would affect them, while Fenerbahce would be closer to come out to the game with ideal squad.

One thing is certain the game is likely to be played in exciting and nervous position. There is chance that it might now be game with high number of dangerous chances but both teams would give their best to get 3 points at such crucial game for both of them.

Results:
Turkish Super League, 23rd week:
Kayserispor 3:2 Konyaspor
Alanyaspor 1:2 Trabzonspor

Schedule:
Turkish Super League, 23rd week:
13:30 Osmanlispor - Antalyaspor
13:30 Yeni Malatyaspor - Karabukspor
16:00 Goztepe - Sivasspor
19:00 Besiktas - Fenerbahce

In other news:

- Besiktas CEO Fikret Orman: We have managed to sell player with 26-27 million euro which we brought 500,000 euro fee. We have made gains by reducing debt, we didnt close anything at the club. Our debt is 1,710,000,000 TL.

- Besiktas has announced its total debt as being 1,948,589,129 TL.

- Galatasaray has stated that its players Ryan Donk and Eren Derdiyok recovery from injury has become

- Trabzonspor has announced that clubs debt has raised 358,000,000 TL and club has made loss of 149,000,000 TL between 31st May until November 2017.

- Besiktas considers to provide additional bonuses for win against Fenerbahce both at Super League 23rd week game and Turkish Cup semi-final 1st leg game.

- Besiktas are expected to start with Tosic, Medel and Babel during Super League 23rd week game against Fenerbahce.

- Ludogorets are interested to transfer Besiktas player Cyle Larin.

What happened in Turkish football today? 23/02/2018

Galatasaray has got very calm win at crucial week of the league. 

Galatasaray has recieved one of the easiest wins during this season as it has won with very comfortable scoreline of 5:0 against Bursaspor during Super League 23rd week at the week where their main two rivals would be playing against each other.

As it was stated, main factor which has kept and in fact puts chances of league title into high posibility of Galatasaray is their very impressive performance at the home ground. Taking account that it has played against Bursaspor which among having very struggling period with its performance, it has also provided one of its worst performances during this season. Taking account that Galatasaray did come out with sole aim to win game with Bafetembi Gomis, who tends to be always hungry for goal, has been exceptionally seeking for goal as he has provided hat-trick and has led team forward. Another player who deserves mention is Garry Rodrigues which showed that both players have great understanding as he has provided asissts to the Gomis and also at one goal case has been vice versa. In overall, Galatasaray has recieved very comfortable scoreline with dominating game and not providing much chances to their opponents.

Bursaspor meanwhile has provided one of their weakest performance including recieving red card during 1st half and has failed both to stop Galatasaray attackers and not being able to provide attacking game themselves. It does look like Bursaspor head coach Paul Le Guen whose team had good spell at 1st half of season needs to do lots of work to improve game.

Galatasaray as been stated has recieved an important win at crucial week and would enjoy being leader at least for 48 hours but more important didnt get another loss of points at weeks where each point is important.

Trabzonspor needs to make sure that other players find goals during game.

Trabzonspor without doubt would aim to end its period without winning games as it would be meeting with Alanyaspor during Super League 23rd week and even through their have only lost to Basaksehirspor last week, their period of draws provided some poor results and possibly loss of motivation.

To all respect to the Alanyaspor , it is side which is capable to provide motivation to the Trabzonspor which it needs right now for at least to start aiming for Europa League spots but to achieve that it needs to start ways to make sure that other players at the front apart of Burak Yilmaz would start to score goals including at the game tomorrow. Taking account that Trabzonspor does tend to find chances and control ball effectively but is lacking to find goals and also Alanyaspor has lost its effective attacking game as it has sold Vagner Love to Besiktas, it would be reasonable to expect that game would be dominated by Trabzonspor. At short, it is certain that Trabzonspor are seeking and hungry for a win tomorrow and would provide their best to achieve such an result.

Trabzonspor are coming as favourites but their need to find solutions as been stated to find goals to get good result tomorrow and also in upcoming games if it wants to end season at high note.

Most stressful person at the derby game will be Cuneyt Cakir.

Turkish football fans and followers of Super League without doubt has been entered to the Besiktas and Fenerbahce derby game which would take place on 25th February. With everyone hoping to enjoy a great game, only person at the field who would have difficult time is referee of game Cuneyt Cakir.

With Besiktas and Fenerbahce head coaches, among others, has been pretty unhappy with referee work and decisions lately would surely provide an additional stressful moment for Cuneyt Cakir. It needs to be noted that Cakir has provided great performance during Champions League last 16 1st leg game between Chelsea and Barcelona as he has been praised by both sides after game. But it is known, sadly, that his performance at Europe is not same as in Turkey and hence with being at additional pressure he might be under extra pressure with providing decision. It is therefore to some extend crucial for game to be going through calm manner as both teams and referee would be happy and also fans as game would be focussed into game. In fact, compare to recent years, there is expectation that game would be played in calm manner without much stress.

However, this game is crucial for both sides especially for Besiktas due their stance and some willing to win might move into emotional and this is where role of Cuneyt Cakir as referee would become crucial.

Results:
Turkish Super League, 23rd week:
Galatasaray 5:0 Bursaspor
Akhisarspor 3:0 Konyaspor

Schedule:
Turkish Super League, 23rd week:
16:00 Kayserispor - Kasimpasa
19:00 Alanyaspor - Trabzonspor

In other news:

- Besiktas would have administrative board on 24th February.

- Galatasaray would have yearly administration board meeting on 24th March.

- Galatasaray player Eren Derdiyok and Ryan Donk has become injured during Super League 23rd week game against Bursaspor.

- Fenerbahce head coach Aykut Kocaman: Our win against Basaksehirspor was very important as turning point, but it was 3 point win. Cost of Besiktas is at least 10 points for us. Winning against opponent who would aim for win would provide great motivation. I accept them to give all focus to game but we also need to win game. Bayern Munich game was different, Besiktas has dominated league for 2 years especially at home. I dont want referees to affect game. Natural mistakes happen but it shouldnt affect game.

- Galatasaray CEO Mustafa Cengiz: I believe UEFA would give chance to Galatasaray in the meeting on 9th March regarding FFP.

- Galatasaray are interested to transfer Boluspor player Sait Karafirtanalar.

- Sevilla, Lyon, Newcastle United and Fiorentina are interested to transfer Galatasaray player Garry Rodrigues.

What happened in Turkish football today? 22/02/2018

Galatasaray are coming out as favourites but Bursaspor can provide surprise.

Turkish Super League 23rd week is going to start with two games, with Galatasaray game taking all of the attention on 23rd February as their continuing their league title race at such crucial week with playing home against Bursaspor where it is expected to be favourite.

Taking account of how team performs at home, compare to away games, and also unstable condition of Bursaspor which is performing below their expected level Galatasaray would be aiming to get an important win at the week where their are two rivals would be playing against each other. Losing their leadership last week against Kasimpasa it is certain that players would be coming out in different mood to the game and being hungry for a league title would aim to provide their usual performance their do at their home ground this season. Still, Bursaspor could provide great performance as their not been an easy opponent for big clubs for long time now and might provide high level performance against Galatasaray at their away game and hence as always Galatasaray still need to focus into their best game.

Galatasaray would come out as favourites but Bursaspor even when at difficult situation can provide great performance against big clubs and hence their is possibility of surprising at such crucial week of title race.

PFDK has declined request to cancel Anderson Talisca yellow card.

Professional Football Disciplinary Committee has announced that it has declined decision from Besiktas to cancel yellow card recieved by Anderson Talisca during Super League 22nd week game which led for fact that Talisca will not play against Fenerbahce due of recieving 4 yellow cards.

It was clear from start due of regulations that opportunity for PFDK to cancel yellow card has been very low as both TFF and FIFA regulations strongly state for no cancellation of cards. As been stated previously in this blog, this move has been very likely to get media attention from Besiktas as it was clear that the chances of cancellation of this card has been almost to none. With forgetting about Anderson Talisca issue Besiktas now need to provide its entire focus towards Fenerbahce derby game on 25th February as the loss could lead them outside of title race as crucial weeks are getting close right now. Taking account psychological effect Bayern Munich loss made to the team it would be interesting to see how team would react.

Besiktas head coach Senol Gunes would now need to work on how to work at the team which would be without either Pepe and Anderson Talisca which are one of the best players at the team recently.

Cengiz Under is new start of worldwide football. 

One of the talking points of Champions League last 16 1st leg games in Turkey and around Europe has been goal scored by Roma player Cengiz Under during game against Shakhtar Donetsk which it has lost with 2:1 scoreline.

Even through in overall Roma performance could be criticised, it could be bravely stated that best player at the team and among best at the game has been Cengiz Under as he became youngest Turkish player to score at competition on 1st half. Under among that has been one of the players who made team to go forward and create chances. So far, 2018 has been a great year for Cengiz Under becoming main player of the team without doubt which also led him to be selected to best 11 squad for Champions League last 16 1st leg games and as player without trouble he would carry on improving and make Turkish fans and followers with his performance at Roma and possibly oppening doors to even bigger clubs.

Without doubt there is new start of worldwide football and with being aware of that he needs to improve as player constantly, and so far he took actions it shows that he would just do that.

Schedule:
Turkish Super League, 23rd week:
20:00 Galatasaray - Bursaspor
20:00 Akhisarspor - Konyaspor

In other news:

- PFDK decisions:
- Kayserispor has recieved 20,000 TL fine for behaviour of fans and blockage of stands for next away game
- Konyaspor has recieved 30,000 TL fine for behaviour of fans and blockage of stands + 50,000 TL for this happening 3rd time in season.
- Besiktas has recieved 9,000 TL for teamwise anti-sportmanship behaviour.
- Besiktas trainer Seref Cicek has recieved 13,000 TL + 1 game ban fine for anti-sportmanship behaviour .
- Fenerbahce has recieved 250,000 TL fine for 6th time of behaviour of fans and blockage of section stands.
- Goztepe player Adama Traore has recieved 2-game ban for breaking rules.
- Galatasaray has recieved 100,000 TL fine for anti-sportmanship statements.
- TFF Arbitration Court has reduced fine of Galatasaray towards Aurelian Chedjou from 194,117 euro to 50,000 euro.

- Roma player Cengiz Under has been selected to the Champions League last 16 1st leg games best starting 11 squad by UEFA.- Trabzonspor player Abdulkadir Omur didnt complete training session but his condition is reported to be not serious.

- Karabukspor CEO Mehmet Aytekin: I do have number of projects for a team and their would be announced. Everyone knows this team has economical issues, it would be our priority. We would make important decisions in upcoming days. There is no problem with squad. We aim to win games

- Fenerbahce player Mathieu Valbuena has become injured during today's training session.

- Galatasaray would be opening its club's museum at Turk Telekom Arena on 1st March.

- Fenerbahce player Ismail Koybasi has resumed training session aftre recovering from injury.

- Turkish National Team head coach Mircea Lucescu is right now focussing into possibility to include Altinordu players Baris Alici, Kerim Alici, Recep Yemisci, Yusuf Acer and Ridvan Ozdemir to national team squad.

- Trabzonspor CEO Muharrem Usta plans to pay salary to unpaid players following Super League 23rd week game against Alanyaspor.

- West Bromwich Albion has offered 8 million euro for Trabzonspor player Okay Yokuslu.

What happened in Turkish football today? 21/02/2018

Domagoj Vida has made role for game ended 5:0 but it didnt prevent Bayern Munich to win game.

As been stated beforehand at this blog, to expect good results from Champions League last 16 1st leg at Allianz Arena against Bayern Munich would be too much for Besiktas and this scoreline, sadly, should not be treated as huge surprise.

Still, it needs to be admitted that red card of Domagoj Vida which was actually due of very big mistake at such game from Atiba Hutchinson has played an important role of the result. Of course, and this blog underlines that, Bayern Munich would still very likely to win game with equal squads but it could been ended with more reasonably scoreline. Coming to the game, it could be seen from 1st half performance that Besiktas has played well and its true that it has played brave football but its need to be admitted that Bayern Munich has been very poor also. Factor of red card and 3rd goal during 2nd half has played an important role of the game as Besiktas who has lost concentration and tiredness start showing itself has led Bayern Munich to get game into their hand and certainly ending this tie and openning its way for quarter-final stage. 

The best for Besiktas can do is to come at its home ground, at the game which could be filled with their fans, even through reaction of Besiktas fans for 2nd leg could be questionable in sense of coming to games and being aware it has nothing to lose try at least to get some points for country rating and itself. 

Mehmet Aytekin would aim to save team from bankruptcy.

Mehmet Aytekin has been selected as Karabukspor new CEO as he would have very difficult job at the club which is in incredibly poor economical condition and also are at very poor position at the table.

Karabukspor is right now having 12 point difference with closest safety area team Antalyaspor and this point difference is expected to be become wider unless some surprising factor will not take place and it wont start winning back-to-back. Even through some criticism of administration at the team could be criticised, it will not be fair to criticise a lot of its performance as its damaged team right now and have some issues. As Mehmet Aytekin become CEO, he has made statement that his main aim is to provide some cash injection to the team and prevent them get bankrupted, which by itself shows seriousness of the team right now. Without doubt decision of Mehmet Aytekin to become CEO of such club, which noone would like to save, factor of being sole candidate shows that shows his connection to the city and team.

Even through its hard to state Karabukspor one of the initial clubs of the country, its still has some good spells in its period including at Super League and it would be saddened for sure to see this club to dissapear and hence this saving process is very important for team.

Benfica aims to make good money if its sells Talisca to Besiktas. 

Even through transfer window has been officially closed in Turkey and around Europe, there is still on-going issue about Besiktas -loaned Anderson Talisca who is loaned from Benfica at the country as both team and player want him to stay at club.

Benfica right now seems to be agreed that Talisca would be staying in Benfica but aiming try to make an agreement which monetary would make them hand into stronghand as he has become one of the key players at the team who without doubt has recieved lots of focus around Europe with both his performance at Super League and Champions League. It is expected for Benfica to provide an offer with high amount of cash and also % share of next transfer as club rightfully aware that he could be sold for good cash from Besiktas whenever it happens. With transfer fee being reasonable for Besiktas it would be also expected for them to make such deal.

With providing strong pressure to Benfica both from player and club it is aware that Portuguese side has come into turns that he would stay here but it would be aiming to make good cash, and here is where an agreement might not made easily.

In other news:

- Turkish observer Murat Ilgaz has been appointed to observe Europa League 2nd round 2nd leg game between Atletico Madrid and Copenhagen.

- Galatasaray doctor Yener Ince: As club we were aware of condition of Bafetembi Gomis and done all of the studies and tests prior to season. We were ready in condition he lost consciousness. This decision to continue playing him is normal medically. We wanted him to substitute but he wanted to stay. Medically it wasnt wrong decision. Cedric Carasso is expected to start training within 2-3 weeks.

- Galatasaray player Fernando has resumed training sessions with his team after recovering from injury.

- Galatasaray players Maicon and Serdar Aziz are expected to start at starting 11 against Bursaspor during Super League 23rd week game.

- Fenerbahce CEO candidate Ali Koc: I am most excited about my responsibility for this club if I win an election. I want to make this as winning team and make everyone happy at team.

- Fenerbahce player Martin Skrtel has resumed training sessions after recovering from injury.

- Everton player Cenk Tosun: I have liked high tempo at Premier League. I want to be player who would help to achieve its high aims which their have set.

- Arsenal scouts has been present during Bayern Munich and Besiktas game to watch Oguzhan Ozyakup but sadly for them player didnt get time during game.

- Bursaspor head coach Paul Le Guen: Galatasaray game would be hard for us as we not having great days but I am still looking positevely. I dont think I have problems with players, it doesnt look like it at least. You can ask them.

- English clubs are interested to transfer Galatasaray player Garry Rodrigues.

- Fatih Tekke has been appointed as Trabzonspor player Abdulkadir Omur manager.

What happened in Turkish football today? 20/02/2018

Bayern Munich has won with 5:0 scoreline against Besiktas and its not surprise.

Certainly, it will not be surprise to anyone to see that Besiktas has lost to Bayern Munich with 5:0 scoreline regardless of how game developed and taking account of red card by Domadoj Vida in 1st half has made task even more difficult for them.

It needs to be stated that in all fairness that Besiktas did start game in pretty well performance with going forward and seeking chances and being careful at the defence which did provide some hope for good scoreline during 1st half even after red card. However, as Coman has scored 2nd goal and more after Muller scoring 3rd goal Besiktas has lost its concentration towards game and has allowed their opponents to control game and being Bayern Munich it has used this opportunity to carry on attacking. This blog did state that the goal is very important for away game and hence taking away Vagner Love with introducing Dusko Tosic also has shown in scoreline 3:0 that it was happy with scoreline and even through it could be understandable, if team wanted to turn around game in Istanbul or have any chance this was wrong decision. Most memorable position of Besiktas has been great chance by Vagner Love as he didnt manage to score  goal during 1st half. If it was goal things could been different.

Well, even through Bayern Munich could be stated that it didnt provide great 1st half at overall it was typical Bayern Munich. Even when it wasnt creating chances and had trouble to get fill of the ball it was still felt that team would win this game and with Besiktas giving up mentally and physically it has shown that dominance.

Right now, Besiktas needs to accept its fate at the tie where it had very low chances and aim to focus to Fenerbahce as this game could leave scar or opposite provide extra motivation.

Besiktas has send request to TFF to cancel yellow card of Anderson Talisca

Prior to the Champions League game, Besiktas has also announced that it has send request towards Turkish Football Federation stating that yellow card of Anderson Talisca, which means he will not be able to play against Fenerbahce during Super League 23rd week should be cancelled.

According to Besiktas, yellow which was recieved by Anderson Talisca has been given wrongly as their wasnt any foul and in fact Konyaspor has provided much more serious foul towards Besiktas player but nothing was given in that position. Now, if Besiktas is even technically correct it is very unlikely for TFF to change following decision as their is no right to change arleady given decision according to federation rules and it would not be unfair and quite naturally raise lots of criticism and high number of similar requests from other clubs and hence does raise high number of the issues. It is very likely that Besiktas are aware of that and this attempt is only given to raise awareness of bad refereeing and also talking point prior to derby game.

It needs to be stated sadly that talks about referee in the latter stages of the league has become once again strongly and is expected to continue as the league progresses which is clearly is not what anyone would like to see.

Galatasaray needs to treat Bafetembi Gomis conditions precautiously. 

One of the most talked points of the Super League 22nd week has been decision by Galatasaray to carry on playing Bafetembi Gomis after he has failed unwell on 7th minute against Kasimpasa.

Bafetembi Gomis is suffering from condition which affects his blood flow when being under stress or in similar conditions which leads for him to lose conscience. Following issue interestingly enough according to Galatasaray doctors and also his previous clubs doesnt affect his health and performance dramatically. However, it is clear that player has felt unwell and by decision to keep him at the field raises high risk. It is true that Galatasaray doctors and head coach Fatih Terim were intending to substitute him but Gomis has insured that he would be staying at the field and still capable to play. But it is known that after such issues players due of shock want to carry on performance and hence it shouldnt be listen if focus is into health. Thankfully, nothing serious happened this time.

Health conditions should always put priority to the game as their was risk that it could happen again during game and should be treated in such manner as their were cases when players passed away by stating prior to incident that their were ok.

Results:
UEFA Champions League, last 16, 1st leg:
Bayern Munich 5:0 Besiktas

In other news:

- PFDK referalls: 
- Konyaspor has been referred for events at the field and behaviour of fans.
- Besiktas has been offered for 6 players recieving yellow cards in one game.
- Besiktas trainer Seref Cicek has been referred for anti-spotmanship behaviour
- Kayserispor and Fenerbahce has been referred for behaviour of fans.
- Galatasaray and also club CEO Mustafa Cengiz has been referred for anti-sportmanship statements
- Goztepe player Adama Traore has been referred for breaking rules.

- Galatasaray has made sponsorship deal with Jeunesse for 1 million euro deal/year for 2.5 years

- Everton trainer Duncan Ferguson: Cenk Tosun has shown great performance during training and scored some goals. We want to give him chances in Premier League.He would be substituted in next 2 games, and should be ready for starting 11 against Brighton.

- Fenerbahce player Vincent Janssen manager Louis Laros: He is working on special recovery workout. He wants to recover from injury entirely. Hopefully, he would recover until end of the season.

- Yeni Malatyaspor are expected to start with Arturo Mina during Super League 23rd week game against Karabukspor.

- Antalyaspor player Mustafa El Kabir: We didnt recieve salaries for long time as team is in difficult position financially. We aware that money comes only from TFF win bonuses so we focussed to win game.

- Portuguese National Team are considering to include Fenerbahce player Luis Neto at the team squad for World Cup 2018.

- Number of Chinese clubs are interested to transfer Fenerbahce player Roberto Soldado but club has declined those offers.

What happened in Turkish football today? 19/02/2018

Galatasaray away game phobia continued against Kasimpasa.

Even through some people would consider playing an away game against Kasimpasa hardly to be away, its still on paper is and Galatasaray has lost another game outside of its home with 2:1 scoreline without being able to control game at all during 2nd half.

It needs to be stated that Galatasaray did start game in very good manner and showing an attacking game which didnt allow Kasimpasa not only controlling ball but also stop Galatasaray effective play. In fact, until it has conceded a goal with penalty which in this blog view was penalty even through Galatasaray side strongly states it wasnt has led Galatasaray not being able to play its best game and slowly control went to their opponents. It could be stated that main reason for this to take place has been away game phobia which made players into stressful position without doubt after result of game has become 1:1. One thing is certain its need to improve its away games performance as Galatasaray has lost its all points at away games and its area which wasnt solved by Fatih Terim as he joined them in December.

Certainly, Terim if aims to end season with league title needs to find solution for this issue as its statistics show it could be very hard to get league title with losing high number of games.

Other players needs to score at Trabzonspor apart of Burak Yilmaz, while Basaksehirspor need to be aware of pressure growing up.

Basaksehirspor has regained its leadership as it managed to win Trabzonspor at the game where both teams has given their high level performance but as been stated before hand Basaksehirspor was observed not to dominate game in the way it did beforehand.

In fact, Trabzonspor did show some good performance with being careful at defence and only making one mistake which has costed them goal from Emmanuel Adebayor. However, with also creating some chances, after game Riza Calimbay rightly has stated that the main issue at the team is being finding goals as only player who seems to score is being Burak Yilmaz which was also case to some extend yesterday as Trabzonspor key chances which could been ended at goal has been created by Burak Yilmaz. As this blog stated before hand this season, its needs to make sure that other players would also starting to find goals or it would end season way below of expected place. Basaksehirspor even through did regain leadership and improved a bit compare to past 2 weeks, needs to be careful psychologically as pressure would build up mentally on upcoming weeks for sure.

Results of this week has once again shown that title race would be taken place intense and Basaksehirspor needs to be aware of that mentally.

Besiktas needs to provide strong defence and find at least goal for some hope in 2nd leg. 

Without doubt the most awaiting game for last 2 months for Besiktas fans and Turkish football followers has been Champions League last 16 tie against Bayern Munich as Besiktas even through has ended group stage as leaders would come out to the game where many people dont see any chance for them.

Even through in all fairness, Besiktas chances has been low for tie, the factor that Cenk Tosun has left team would make even case more difficult as it needs to find goals for certain. As it is known Besiktas does have small chance to make suprising result at its home ground during 2nd leg, but to make this meaningful it need not to lose at enormous score and if it does lose try to find at 1 goal for having away goal rule which could provide some hope. Therefore, the role of defenders during game is playing huge role including for Pepe who during one game at his spell at Real Madrid has conceded 4 goals in one game against Lewandowski statistic which is worrying for sure. It does look like Besiktas main aim is to provide strong defence and find at least one goal, possibly from counter-attack to have some chances for 2nd leg.

It could be seen that this entry has been written as Besiktas arleady lost game, but looking things realistically and not using popularity words from Besiktas administrators, its more crucial for Besiktas not aiming for win but reduce damage as much possible for hope in 2nd leg.

Results:
Turkish Super League, 22nd week:
Genclerbirligi 3:0 Goztepe

Schedule:
UEFA Champions League, Last 16, 1st leg:
22:45 Bayern Munich - Besiktas

In other news:

- Karabukspor CEO Ziya Unsal will not run as CEO candidate during CEO election on 21st February.

- Galatasaray player Cedric Carraso has become injured and has went through operation. Meanwhile, club player Sofiane Feghouli didnt attend training session as he felt unwell.

- Galatasaray player Tarik Camdal has resumed training session with 1st team after being taken back to the main squad.

- Bursaspor player Moussa Sow has resumed training session after recovering from injury. Meanwhile, team player Badu will not be able to play for 4 weeks due of injury.

- TurkishNationalTeam head coach Mircea Lucescu would be attending Champions League last 16 1st leg game between Besiktas-Bayern Munich and Shakhtar Donetsk-Roma players to check performance of Turkish players.

- Besiktas player Ersin Destanoglu has been included into Champions League last 16 1st leg game squad instead of Utku Yuvakuran.

- Kasimpasa administrator Nursin Bilgin: After game Galatasaray has critisised penalty decision by referee at changing room. But it was clear penalty, some trainers dont know rules. Those players couldnt provide high level performance in 2nd half.

- Bursaspor CEO Ali Ay has declined rumours that team would sack club's head coach Paul Le Guen.

What happened in Turkish football today? 18/02/2018

Galatasaray lost its leadership as it lost another away game this time against Kasimpasa. 

Galatasaray has lost another away game this time against Kasimpasa with 2:1 scoreline as it has lost leadership after the game as Basaksehirspor won against Trabzonspor earlier on the day. With having same points also this result has made one of the losers of the week but made title race certainly more exciting.

Actually Galatasaray did start game in very good way with dominating game and creating number of the chances and also finding goals and in fact could find 2nd as the game progressed as their opponents didnt show great performance. However, penaly goal which was scored by Kasimpasa towards end of 1st half has led Galatasaray dominance at the game and things didnt go at all their planned for rest of the game without showing much impressive game during 2nd half. Usually for big teams when its concedes goal it tends to show reaction and perform better but for some reason team didnt show that reaction or more precise shown opposite direction. Without doubt one of the biggest worry has been Bafetembi Gomis feeling unwell during game. This issue was known before he was transferred but it has shown in serious manner 1st time in this season and does raise some question about health conditions of Gomis as it would be even criticised for team to let him play regardless him wanting to.

Kasimpasa which didnt had at all great start to the game has managed to start dominating game as it found legitimate penalty kick and afterwards without double start showing much more brave and attacking football which led them found an winning goal.

Galatasaray needs to improve its performance at away games if it wants to get league title as their main opponents would do their best to get points for rest of 12 points as Galatasaray might not have chance to recover those points.

Basaksehirspor has got an important win against Trabzonspor.

After failing to win last 2 games, Basaksehirspor has managed to win Trabzonspor with single goal from Adebayor and in same time has ended draw series of 5 games of its opponents. With following result Basaksehirspor has regained its strong title race in this season.

It needs to be stated however that Basaksehirspor did have some issues of getting control of the game as it did in previous two games and game wise did show some weak areas but strong defensive performance didnt allow their opponents to find goal as their have shown better game.
Basaksehirspor player Emmanuel Adebayor goal on 39th minute without doubt has been very crucial for a team as it would keep their dream for league title this season and also possibly affect positively for upcoming games during this season. Statistically also, games in Trabzon for Istanbul clubs has always been difficult including for Basaksehirspor so it was important for them to win game and get motivational boost for upcoming games. Time would show if this result would provide possitive impact to the in near future.

Meanwhile, with Trabzonspor getting results in last 5 games it has also got from strong opponents and in most games actually shown good performance. Therefore, there was some positive awaiting for this game and it did start this game in such way. In fact, Trabzonspor in game wise has been looked better with controlling ball and tempo and creating high number of the chances including good chance of Burak Yilmaz who as been stated above is player who does most goal-scoring of team. Trabzonspor head coach Riza Calimbay could be satisfied with his team performance but would very sad for result as team is losing crucial points and with getting far from title race has also risk not to compete at Europa League.

Coming to title race, without doubt this game has been even more crucial for Basaksehirspor with only getting 1 point from last 2 games and their needed to get this win which their did even through it wasnt easy task.

Fenerbahce has got calm win prior to crucial Besiktas derby game. 

Fenerbahce has provided an important win against struggling Alanyaspor as this win was especially important for a team to fight for league title and also got motivation prior to next game against Besiktas which is crucial for two teams.

It needs to be stated that Fenerbahce players and head coach Aykut Kocaman has come out to the game and prepared to get a win without doubt even through it did get time for them in 1st half to get into the game. Still quality performance both by Giuliano and Fernandao has allowed team to get into 2:0 scoreline prior to the half-time and get more or less what their wanted. With this scoreline and also help of penalty goal from Giuliano during 60th minute has led team to control ball for most part of the 2nd half and provide much better attacking time. Even through talking about high places for Alanyaspor was never case it was difficult opponent due of Vagner Love, but as their sold him to the Besiktas in mid-season it does look like it would have big issues at attack and it was visible at game yesterday.

Right now, as our blog stated yesterday Fenerbahce would provide their all focus to the Besiktas to be played next week and as compare to Besiktas it would have whole week to prepare it would be able to be more fresh to the game.

Results:
Turkish Super League, 22nd week:
Bursaspor 0:0 Yeni Malatyaspor
Karabukspor 0:3 Akhisarspor
Trabzonspor 0:1 Basaksehirspor
Kasimpasa 2:1 Galatasaray

Schedule:
Turkish Super League, 22nd week:
20:00 Genclerbirligi - Goztepe

In other news:

- UEFA has announced that referee of Champions League last 16 1st leg game between Bayern Munich and Besiktas will be Ovidiu Hategan.

- Turkish referee Cuneyt Cakir would referee Champions League last 16 1st leg game between Chelsea and Barcelona.

- Game observer Sefer Altintas at his report about Super League 22nd week game between Konyaspor and Besiktas is reported to state that referee of game Alper Ulusoy didnt make any mistakes in decisions.

- Galatasaray are interested to transfer Alanyaspor player Emre Akbaba.

- Besiktas has declined transfer offer from Chinese club for Adriano with 5 million euro and 7 million euro salary offer.

- Galatasaray doesnt plan to sell its player Garry Rodrigues for less than 15 million euro.