Besiktas will host lowly-placed Konyaspor in the Super Lig on Monday. Before their meeting in nine days to play for the Turkish Cup quarterfinal, each of these teams will be vying for the psychological edge in addition to the three points that are up for grabs.
Preview (Besiktas vs. Konyaspor)
Besiktas’ lead over Fenerbahce, who are currently in second place. They grew to a whopping 24 points last weekend after putting on a bland display. It resulted in a goalless draw away to Kayserispor, who are from a lower division. Even if the result went against the odds, it shouldn’t have been a huge surprise. Besiktas has struggled mightily for most of the season, in part because of an extensive injury list. Trabzonspor passed the Black Eagles in the league standings, which saw them fall to fourth place. Despite this, both teams are tied at 40 points apiece, with the Burgundy Blues leading on goal differential.
Although Fernando Santos’ team is unlikely to qualify for the Champions League, they are far from assured of competing in any European competition next season, with Kasimpasa just one point behind them. Even so, the home team will have some confidence from their performance against this opponent. They won the rematch 2-0 in October, extending their winning streak against Konyaspor to four games (W2 D2 L0). It goes back to December 2021. Besiktas’ lead over Fenerbahce, who are currently in second place.
Team News
Tayfur Bingol, who tore a muscle in his thigh last week, will now need to miss some time due to an extensive injury list previously kept by Santos. Due to an ACL injury, Amir Hadziahmetovic will miss the remainder of the season; however, it is still unclear if Salih Ucan and Emrecan Uzunhan will be able to play this season. It will take many weeks for Rachid Ghezzal (hamstring), Miroslav Rashica (thigh), and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain (muscle) to recover from their injuries. Arda Kilic is considered doubtful.
Due to a one-match ban for a string of yellow cards, forward Marlos Moreno will not be available for Omerovic. Sokol Cikalleshi will likely continue to lead the line in his place. Louka Prip, who recently scored the game-winning goal against Ankaragucu, is expected to remain in the attacking midfield trio with Valon Ethemi and Alexander Cicaldau.
Besiktas 2-0 Konyaspor
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