URTV24 SPORT- Kasimpasa is set to host Konyaspor at the Recep Tayyip Erdogan Stadium this Sunday in a highly anticipated match of the Turkish Super Lig’s eighth round. Kasimpasa, currently sitting 11th in the league with eight points, aims to extend their four-game unbeaten streak. Meanwhile, Konyaspor, positioned eighth with 10 points, looks to build on their recent victory against Istanbul Basaksehir.
Kasimpasa’s Road to Recovery
After a rocky start marked by three consecutive defeats, Kasimpasa has shown resilience under Shota Arveladze. Their turnaround began with a narrow victory over Fatih Karagumruk, followed by draws against Samsunspor and Fenerbahce. The Apaches then secured a dramatic 2-1 win against Rizespor, with Mortadha Ben Ouanes scoring a stoppage-time header. Despite having only 37% possession, Kasimpasa capitalized on their opportunities, converting both shots on target.
While their attack has improved, scoring seven goals in total, their defense has conceded eight. However, their home form remains a concern, as they haven’t won in their last six league appearances at Erdogan Stadium, including two losses and a draw in their three home games this season.
Konyaspor’s Quest for Consistency
Konyaspor ended a three-game winless run with a 2-1 victory against Istanbul Basaksehir. Coach Recep Ucar lauded his team’s resilience, especially after playing with ten men for over 25 minutes. This victory aims to spark a strong run after a mixed start to the season, which included wins over Eyuspor and Gaziantep, a draw with Goztepe, and losses against Alanyaspor and Galatasaray.
The Anatolian Eagle boasts a potent attack, having scored 12 goals, placing them among the league’s top scorers. However, their defense has also conceded eight goals, suggesting Sunday’s match could be an open, high-scoring affair. Konyaspor has struggled away from home, with only one win in three matches, but they will take confidence from their only away defeat coming against champions Galatasaray.
Team News and Potential Lineups
Kasimpasa may have to cope without Haris Hajradinovic, who sustained an injury against Rizespor. Ali Yavuz Kol could replace him on the left wing, with Mamadou Fall on the opposite flank and Ben Ouanes in the playmaker role. Cafu continues to serve his suspension.
Konyaspor will be without Enis Bardhi due to suspension, with Pedrinho likely to fill his spot. Ufuk Akyol remains sidelined, and Riechedly Bazoer is also doubtful. Mehmet Umut Nayir is expected to lead the attack.
Possible Kasimpasa Starting Lineup: Gianniotis; Winck, Opoku, Szalai, Frimpong; Baldursson; Fall, Ouanes, Ustundag, Kol; Gueye
Possible Konyaspor Starting Lineup: Ertas; Yazgili, Jevtovic, Demirbag; Andzouana, Ibrahimoglu, Pedrinho, Guilherme; Ndao, Muleka; Nayir
Match Prediction
Konyaspor has historically dominated this fixture, winning their last three visits to Kasimpasa. With their confidence boosted by last weekend’s win, they are likely to extend their winning streak at Erdogan Stadium.
Prediction: Kasimpasa 1-2 Konyaspor
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