In the Turkish Super Lig, Gaziantep FK welcomes Pendikspor to the Gaziantep Stadium as both teams aim to start the new year positively.
While Gaziantep seeks to move up the table and secure safety, Pendikspor faces a challenging battle against relegation.
Match Preview
Gaziantep FK secured a 3-0 win against Fatih Karagumruk in their last outing, ending a four-match winless streak.
Denis Dragus, Max Gradel, and Nicolas N’Koulou found the net in a convincing victory, providing the team with a much-needed morale boost.
Marius Sumudica’s side currently sits 15th in the Super Lig standings with 19 points, aiming to distance themselves from the relegation zone.
They face Pendikspor for the first time in a competitive fixture, eager to build on their recent win and improve their home form.
Pendikspor enters this match after a 1-1 draw against Ankaragucu, ending a winless streak that extended over five league games.
They’re struggling in 19th place with 14 points and face a precarious battle against relegation.
Ivo Vieira’s team has endured defensive vulnerabilities, particularly in away games, conceding the most goals on the road in the league this season. They seek to rectify their defensive frailties to secure points away from home.
Team News
For Gaziantep, Ulas Zengin remains sidelined due to a long-term leg injury. Players like Dragus and Gradel, who scored in the last game, are expected to retain their positions in the attacking setup.
Pendikspor’s Welinton might return to the starting lineup after serving a one-match suspension. Summer signing Emeka Eze, recovering from an ankle injury, hasn’t featured since August.
Predicted Lineups
Gaziantep: (3-4-3)
Nita;
Kizildag, Djilobodji, N’Koulou;
Eskihellac, Jevtovic, Ozcicek, M’Bakata;
Markovic, Dragus, Gradel
Pendikspor: (4-5-1)
Ogur;
Ozgenc, Sulungoz, Welinton, Sequeira;
Vukovic, Lusamba, Thuram, Midtsjo, Akbunar;
Koka
Prediction: Gaziantep 2-1 Pendikspor
Gaziantep, buoyed by their recent win, will look to capitalize on home advantage against Pendikspor, who struggle defensively, especially on their travels.
While Pendikspor might push for a goal, Gaziantep is likely to secure a narrow victory in this encounter.
