Fenerbahce aims to enhance their position in the Turkish Super Lig as they prepare to host Samsunspor on Sunday. The Yellow Canaries are currently four points behind leaders Galatasaray with only 10 matches remaining in the season. This matchup presents a significant chance for Fenerbahce to close the gap, especially with Galatasaray facing Besiktas in a crucial derby this weekend.
Recent Form and Challenges
Fenerbahce has experienced a challenging period, unable to capitalize on previous opportunities to narrow the gap to Galatasaray. They recently drew 1-1 with Kasimpasa, conceding a late equalizer, and also struggled in a 2-2 draw against Antalyaspor after a two-goal deficit. Moreover, the Yellow Canaries were eliminated from the Europa League by Nottingham Forest, increasing the pressure to perform in the domestic league.
In a positive turn, Fenerbahce advanced in the Turkish Cup with a dominant 4-0 victory over Gaziantep FK. Despite being the only team in the Super Lig yet to lose after 24 matches, they know that consistent victories are crucial to challenge Galatasaray for the title.
Historical Encounters with Samsunspor
- The last four league matches between Fenerbahce and Samsunspor ended in draws.
- Fenerbahce secured a 2-0 victory over Samsunspor in the Turkish Cup in January.
Samsunspor’s Current Situation
This weekend, Samsunspor comes into the match with similar issues, having drawn their last two league matches, extending their winless streak to four games. They have struggled to find the net, failing to score in their last two league fixtures. In a goalless match against Fatih Karagumruk, they did not manage a shot on target, while their draw with Gaziantep produced only three shots on target without yielding a goal.
Interestingly, Samsunspor has shown offensive prowess in cup competitions, having scored six goals across two recent matches. They defeated KF Shkendija 4-0 and won against Antalyaspor 2-0.
Injury Concerns and Team News
Fenerbahce will be without Edson Alvarez and Caglar Soyuncu due to injuries. Anderson Talisca is also out, while Nelson Semedo’s availability is uncertain. On a positive note, goalkeeper Ederson is expected to play after returning from injury.
Samsunspor also faces several injury challenges with Bedirhan Cetin and Afonso Sousa sidelined. Emre Kilinc will miss out due to a calf injury, and Jaures Assoumou has a more severe knee injury.
Possible Lineups
Fenerbahce:
- Ederson; Muldur, Demir, Oosterwolde, Mercian;
- Guendouzi, Kante;
- Nene, Asensio, Akturkoglu;
- Cherif
Samsunspor:
- Kocuk; Yavru, Sakta, Drongelen, Tomasson;
- Makoumbou, Yuksel;
- Cift, Holse, Mendes;
- Ndiaye
Match Prediction
Fenerbahce is seen as the favorite to win this match, especially with their need for points to keep pace with Galatasaray. Despite historical challenges against Samsunspor, the opponents’ struggles in attack and their injury woes may give Fenerbahce an edge. A close scoreline of 2-1 in favor of the Yellow Canaries seems plausible, provided they replicate their attacking form from the Turkish Cup.
