Besiktas is poised to face off against Gaziantep FK on March 10, 2025, at Tpra5 Stadyumu, as part of Match Week 27 of the Turkish Super Lig 2024-25 season. The stakes are high for the hosts, who currently sit fourth on the league table, chasing the chance to leapfrog to third place with a decisive win. Meanwhile, Gaziantep FK stands at the tenth position, struggling with consistency but seeking to upset the Odds.
Besiktas has seen its form resurgence, having sealed 12 victories out of 24 matches this season. Most recently, they celebrated success with six consecutive wins, the latest being against Kayserispor, where they triumphed 2-0 thanks to goals from João Mário and Semih Kılıçsoy. The Black Eagles enter this match on what can be described as a winning streak and are eager to capitalize on home advantage.
The match kickoff is scheduled for 11:00 PM IST, 17:30 GMT, 12:30 ET, and 09:30 PT, under the stewardship of referee Zorbay Kucuk. With the weather forecast predicting 70-75% humidity and no rain, conditions appear favorable for play.
On the other hand, Gaziantep FK has endured mixed fortunes this season, recording nine wins, five draws, and ten losses over their 24 games. The team aims to avoid finishing lower than sixteenth, making every point count. A recent win against Eyüpspor, where Emmanuel Boateng netted twice, showcased their potential. Yet the visitors struggle with consistency, evidenced by their inability to secure points regularly on the road, where they have not tasted victory for over 11 away games.
Historically, the two teams have clashed 16 times, with Besiktas taking the lead—recording nine wins compared to Gaziantep's four, along with three draws. Their last encounter witnessed the teams sharing the spoils with a 1-1 draw, underscoring the competitive nature between the sides.
Both teams will be fielding some key players to watch. For Besiktas, Ciro Immobile has been instrumental, contributing ten goals from 21 league matches this season, and his experience will be pivotal in the attacking front. Immobile scored the opening goal from the penalty spot during the previous match against Kayserispor, demonstrating his capability under pressure.
David Okereke leads the line for Gaziantep with six league goals alongside two assists. He will need to capitalize on chances and galvanize his teammates to come through against their formidable opponents.
The predicted lineups reveal strong strategies from both sides. Besiktas is expected to line up with Mert Günok; Felix Uduokhai, Emirhan Topcu, Arthur Masuaku, Gedson Fernandes, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain; Ciro Immobile, Rafa Silva, and João Mário aiming to secure the attacking strike force. Gaziantep, on the other hand, will likely deploy Mustafa Burak Boznan; Bruno Viana, Arda Kizildag, Alexandru Maxim, and Deian Sorescu among others as they seek to shore up their defense against the potent Besiktas offense.
With the teams on contrasting paths, the bookies favor Besiktas, with odds at 11/20 for their win and Ciro Immobile to find the net again at 18/5. The expectation leans strongly toward the hosts continuing their streak amid Gaziantep's inconsistent performances. The prediction for the fixture leans toward Besiktas winning narrowly by 2-1.
Both sides face injury concerns, with Besiktas missing Gabriel Paulista and Necip Uysal, which may affect their defensive setups. Gaziantep will also miss Godfrey Stephen due to injuries. These absences mean teams must adjust strategically, potentially influencing the match outcome.
Television coverage will be available via beIN Sports and Fubo for viewers across the U.S., ensuring fans of both teams can keep track of the action.
The eagerly anticipated encounter promises excitement, and fans are left to wonder if Gaziantep can defy the odds or if Besiktas will reaffirm their status as contenders.