Goran Pandev scores first goal against third-division side Balcova [divider]

Galatasaray forward Goran Pandev scored a hat-trick against PTT 3. Lig side Balçova in the Lions 9-1 win in the Turkish Cup.

Pandev scored his first goal for since joining Galatasaray on 27 minutes and then scored two more in the first half.

Galatasaray manager Hamza Hamzaoğlu was pleased with Pandev’s performance but underlined that he needed to improve his fitness.

“Pandev is a quality player, there is no denying his talent,” Hamzaoğlu said.

“He is an important member of the squad but he is not ready physically yet, he must improve his fitness. 

“Pandev will start playing over the next few games but cannot play a full 90 minutes yet, hopefully some playing time helps improve his fitness levels. 

“He scored a few good goals today but really needs to work more and he is.”

The Macedonian international joined Galatasaray from Napoli this summer on a one-year deal worth €2.4 million.

Pandev has played just 27 minutes of Süper Lig football since joining Galatasaray.