Turkish Giants Weekly Recap: Domestic Results, Rising Pressure, and the Road to Europe

Alanyaspor-Galatasaray

Galatasaray scraped past Alanyaspor with a narrow 1–0 victory, but their performance raised serious concerns. The hosts produced 2.11 expected goals (xG) compared to Galatasaray’s 1.67, with a total of 22 shots (8 on target) against the Lions’ 7 (only 2 on target).

The decisive moment came from Mauro Icardi, who scored with a brilliant backheel finish after Wilfried Singo lifted the ball past his marker and delivered a perfect cross.

The real hero, however, was Uğurcan Çakır. Alanyaspor generated 2.58 xGOT (Expected Goals on Target), meaning their on-target shots were statistically expected to produce more than two goals. Yet Uğurcan’s eight saves — six from inside the box and two from distance — completely shut the door. By turning a 2.58 xGOT into a clean sheet, he not only denied Alanyaspor but also proved why Galatasaray were willing to make such a bold investment in him.

UCL Preview – Galatasaray vs. Liverpool

Attention now turns to the Liverpool clash at RAMS Park.

• Squad News: Victor Osimhen is expected to return from injury and start.

• Opponent Form: Including pre-season and the curtain-raiser, Liverpool have failed to win only three matches so far: 2–2 vs Crystal Palace (Community Shield, lost on pens), 1–2 vs Crystal Palace (Premier League), and 2–4 vs AC Milan (friendly). Notably, all three opponents lined up with three centre-backs or a back five.

• Galatasaray’s Dilemma: This naturally fuels the debate in Turkey, where both media and supporters have long argued that Galatasaray’s squad is perfectly built for a back three or back five. The expectation of seeing such a setup is widespread, especially after last season’s memorable 3–4–1–2 display against Tottenham in the Europa League. Despite Mauro Icardi’s season-ending injury that night, Galatasaray played one of their most dominant attacking and pressing games in Europe, leaving fans eager for a repeat with new reinforcements in place.

• Tactical Battle: If Okan Buruk does go with a three-man defence, Galatasaray could replicate the formula that has troubled Liverpool this season. The Lions also hold a clear aerial advantage, with Gabriel Sara’s set-piece delivery and powerful targets making them one of Europe’s most dangerous dead-ball teams. Yet the challenge is immense: Liverpool remain one of the continent’s strongest pressing sides, and their press-resistant midfielders — most notably Ryan Gravenberch — can dismantle even well-structured pressing systems. For Galatasaray, the key will be adjusting the intensity and balance of their press; going too aggressive could leave them exposed, but sitting back too much would surrender their own biggest weapon.
  

Fenerbahçe – Antalyaspor

For Fenerbahçe, the Antalyaspor match was a much-needed relief. After recent slip-ups and heavy criticism, Tedesco secured his first clean-sheet win since mid-September.Marco Asensio struck in the 3rd minute, giving Fenerbahçe control early. The second goal came late (90+1), but dominance was never in doubt: 19 total shots (11 on target) and 67% possession. Antalyaspor managed just 4 attempts in response.

It was Fenerbahçe’s first win without conceding in three matches since the Trabzonspor win. The result buys Tedesco time, though questions over his selections linger. With pressure still high, the upcoming Europa League clash against Nice could prove decisive for his future.

Beşiktaş – Kocaelispor

Beşiktaş have finally steadied the ship, following up a 4–0 win over Kayserispor with a 3–1 home victory against Kocaelispor. The improvement was not just in scoreline but in overall balance—both offensively and defensively.The Black Eagles struck early: Rafa Silva in the 4th minute and Cerny in the 10th. In the second half, former Beşiktaş player Tayfur Bingöl scored against his old club but chose not to celebrate.

The standout moment came from Wilfred Ndidi, who met a high ball near midfield and headed it 35 meters forward, sparking a goal-scoring move that had fans buzzing.

Deep into stoppage time, new signing Jota Silva finally netted his first official goal for the club, sealing the win and lifting spirits in the stands.Beşiktaş have now scored 7 goals in two games, showing a clear attacking resurgence. While defensive gaps remain, the overall display was much more cohesive and encouraging for Sergen Yalçın’s side.