Turkish League Previews: Galatasaray and Fenerbahce battle for 3rd place, can Besiktas bounce back?
Turkish-Football had another successful week predicting the results of the last round of Super Lig games.
Our current record stands at 29 wins – 11 losses.
See More: For more Turkish League news and everything else to do with the crazy world of Turkish football
Antalyaspor v Trabzonspor
Trabzonspor suffered their first defeat of 2017 in a dramatic 4-3 blockbuster of a game against defending champions Besiktas. The Black Sea based side may have lost but they put on a valiant display against an excellent Besiktas side. Antalyaspor and Trabzon have been chasing down a top four spot for weeks now. Just five points separates Trabzonspor from 4th placed Galatasaray and Antalyaspor are just six points behind the Lions. Antalyaspor are in pretty good form but Trabzonspor clearly have a more well rounded side and a more accomplished manager who has finally got his team settled.
Prediction: Trabzonspor Draw/Win
Akhisar v Bursaspor
The form of both these teams has taken a nose dive in 2017. Bursaspor have nothing to play for, Akhisar meanwhile, could do with a win to put some distance between themselves and the relegation zone. The Akigolar are however, too unpredictable to take a punt on and Bursaspor may just not bother turning up.
No Bet
Galatasaray v Fenerbahce
The mother of all Turkish footballing derbies is back. Usually an Intercontinental derby at this stage of the season ends up playing a major role in determining the league champion. This time around it is basically a battle for 3rd place. With 2nd placed Basaksehir losing Fenerbahce could end up closing the gap to four points but if Galatasaray win they will leapfrog their bitter rivals and move into 3rd.
The title race is pretty much over with Besiktas likely to defend the title. There is however, still a lot up for grabs. Second place is not out of reach and would ensure a Champions League spot. On top of that there is of course bragging rights up for grabs. A derby victory for either would temporarily distract the fans from what has otherwise been a disappointing season.
Both sides have no major injury concerns or suspensions heading into the derby. Galatasaray’s appointment of Igor Tudor has not exactly gone according to plan.
The Lions boss has had the temperament of former Tudor monarch, King Henry. Rarely going a week without a bust-up or dropping a player.
Fenerbahce manager Dick Advocaat has not got the best out of his side this season either. To be fair he was not responsible for building the side and did not get to work with the team over the preseason.
As with most derby games the form book goes out the window. Galatasaray have become more dogged under Tudor and this game could come down to which side has most fight in them. It could get ugly and a red card or two would not be a surprise.
Prediction: Galatasaray Draw No Bet
Besiktas v Adanaspor
Besiktas are coming off the back of a cruel Europa League exit. The Black Eagles pushed Lyon to the wire but eventually came unstuck in a penalty shootout. The fact that the Istanbul giants almost knocked the Ligue 1 side out is a testament to just how far they have come under head coach Senol Gunes. Tiredness could be a factor on Monday but Adanaspor have been awful and a win here for Besiktas would take them five points clear at the top of the table.
Prediction: Besiktas -1 Asian Handicap
