The Turkish Super Lig is back with another round of action this week as we get ready for some fascinating fixtures. As we continue through the second half of the campaign, more and more clubs are getting a clearer picture of what their true objectives are in the months ahead. Today, we’ll be taking a look at what should be an intriguing clash between Samsunspor and Rizespor.
Samsunspor Form GuideLast season, Samsunspor won the TFF First League title and earned promotion to the Super Lig as a result of that. They’re just about half way through the season right now and although they’ve had more than a few bright moments, it’s clear to see that they need to make improvements. If they don’t, going back down to the second tier feels like a real possibility.
Samsunspor would’ve felt pretty frustrated if they’d walked away with nothing from their clash against Gaziantep but in the 83rd minute, they went 1-0 down and things looked bleak. Alas, they weren’t about to take it lying down as they battled back and secured a 92nd minute equaliser.
Rizespor Form GuideRizespor gained promotion to the Super Lig last season and since then, they haven’t looked back. They have been on an absolute tear to the point where they now reside in the top five of the league, and we wouldn’t be at all surprised to see them stay there. They’ve found a system that works for them, and it certainly makes for fun viewing for the rest of us.
Rizespor really put the pressure on Fenerbahce by taking the lead in the 27th minute, which they carried with them until the 48th. Alas, the visitors have their heart set on a title push, and they dug deep enough to carve out a 3-1 comeback victory on Saturday.
Match PredictionThis is going to be a nervy affair between two sides who like to try and keep hold of the ball, but struggle more than most in the final third. The chances will be few and far between and if we had to predict an actual result, it feels like the logical answer is a draw.