#goztepe

#goztepe

Despite dragging themselves over the finishing line last season as they clung to their Super Lig status, it is no secret that Erling Moe's men are pencilled in as a standout relegation candidate in 2026. In fact, the former Molde boss has seen his downbeat squad register just a single victory from any of their previous 11 consecutive appearances across all competitions - a rut that stems all the way back to November 29th.

Of course, I had to settle in first. I had an adjustment period, so things didn't quite go as planned on the pitch at the beginning. I had to get to know my teammates, and they had to get to know me - how to interact on the pitch, how to play together. That took a little while. But now, in the last few games, I'm very happy with my performances and how I've played.

"He is like my son,"

Starting with the hosts, while Alanyaspor might still be sat in the bottom-half of the Super Lig table, Joao Pereira's men were enjoying what was a real turn in fortunes prior to Turkey's winter break. Last seen signing off 2025 with a routine 2-0 victory against Tuesday's guests, the Thunders will be demanding a repeat performance at the Gain Park Stadium. With the mood in Pereira's camp at a season-high, the Blacks will be confident of opening the New Year with another statement of intent.