Labinot Harbuzi

Genclerbirligi's Swedish player Labinot Harbuzi has made an impressive start for the team. Team's coach Thomas Doll uses him as an attacking midfielder assisting the team's Brazilian striker Kahe. He looks energetic on the field, especially impressing with his long shots. He is the second Swedish player in the Super League. The other one is Galatasaray's Tobias Linderoth.

Bosnia 1 - Turkey 1

Turkish national team had a disastrous score against Bosnia on an away game and lost its chances (I think) to qualify for World Cup 2010.

The team started well, but couldn't sustain its calmness during the game. As a result, they ended up losing their concentration and tactical discipline.

Panathinaikos:1 Galatasaray:3

Galatasaray beat Panathinaikos 1-3 in an away game. The team generally was lucky. Two crucial mistakes by Pana defenders decided the result. But what was really important was Galatasaray's self-confidence and decisiveness in staying in the game.

The Rijkaard File: Galatasaray's Coach Changes the Course of Events for the Team

Frank Rijkaard has enjoyed an absolutely brilliant start with Galatasaray. The team has NOT lost one single game since he has been appointed. Won all the 6 games in the Super League and qualified to the group stage in UEFA Europa league. Along with his assistant, Johan Neeskens, he has probably created the best coaching staff in club's history.

He applies a similar tactic as of Barcelona. With too many passes and ball possession he tires the opponent and relies on the individual talent of attackers. This has proved quite successful so far.

Here is his ideal squad for the team:

Leo Franco

Sabri Sarioglu,
Gokhan Zan,
Servet Cetin,
Hakan Balta

Ayhan Akman,
Mustafa Sarp

Kader Keita,
Arda Turan,
Harry Kewell

Milan Baros

Besiktas Faces VERY VERY Tough Days...

Besiktas has started this season in a terrible fashion collecting 6 points in 6 games. Additionally, after losing against Galatasaray 3-0 in the league, they lost against Manchester United at a home game by 1-0. Mustafa Denizli, team's coach declared in a press conference that he may resign.

The club has transferred Rodrigo Tabata and Ismail Koybasi from Gaziantepspor and loaned Ibrahim Kas from Getafe.

Here is the game against Manchester United:

Ankaraspor Relegated to a Lower Division

Turkcell Super League team Ankaraspor has been relegated to the lower First Division by the Turkish Football Association. Ankaraspor board agreed a merger with Ankaragucu during the season, which was found dubious by the federation.

Ankaraspor has been an interesting team in Turkish Football. They were indirectly supported by Ankara Municipal and coached by famous German manager Jurgen Rober. Also, prior to the federation's decision, they had sent their best player to Ankaragucu.

This is how Reuters covered the story:

By Daren Butler

ISTANBUL, Sept 15 (Reuters) - Ankaraspor were demoted to the Turkish second division on Tuesday over the club's links to top flight rivals Ankaragucu, which the country's football authorities said were anti-competitive.

A probe was launched last week into the relationship between the two clubs from the country's capital after the son of the city's mayor was appointed chairman of Ankaragucu.

The mayor is honorary chairman of Ankaraspor and the move fuelled speculation about a bid to merge the two clubs. The Turkish Football Federation ordered the process be halted.

"The Professional Football Disciplinary Committee (PFDK) decided to relegate Ankaraspor by one division over its relationship with Ankaragucu... ruling that it was contrary to sporting competitiveness," the PFDK ruling said.

The chairmen of Ankaraspor and Ankaragucu were suspended from their duties for six months. Ankaragucu were not relegated but the club's board members were suspended for three months.

Last weekend's match between Ankaraspor and Kayserispor was postponed because of the investigation.

Ankaraspor and Ankaragucu were 14th and 15th respectively in the Turkish championship before Tuesday's ruling.


Source: http://football.uk.reuters.com/european/news/LF566919.php

Anderlecht 5 - Sivasspor 0

In its fifth match in European Cups, Sivasspor has suffered a disappointing defeat against Anderlecht. With 5 new players in the squad, and the injuries of Mehmet Yildiz and Sezer Badur, Sivasspor has shown signs of extreme lack of discipline and organization. Especially the Australian goalkeeper Petkovic made crucial mistakes and the team failed to produce goal chances.

Team's coach Bulent Uygun said in a post-match interview that he "apologizes" for the defeat and stressed the team's lack of experience in the European arena.


Sivasspor has been playing in the Turkish Superleague for 5 years and it's a success for them to be playing at this level already. Hopefully, they can do better in the UEFA Euro League.


Anderlecht's goals were scored by:
De Sutter 17, 76, Boussoufa 22, Chatelle 32, Frutos 90+ 2

Sivasspor Squad:

* 1 Michael Petkovic
* 4 Sedat Bayrak
* 7 Aydın Musa
* 8 İbrahim Dağaşan
* 11 Erman Kılıç
* 23 Yasin Çakmak
* 28 Ersen Martin
* 44 Pieter Mbemba
* 58 Hayrettin Yerlikaya
* 61 Abdurrahman Dereli
* 77 Onur Tuncer

Substitutes

* 35 Akın Vardar
* 5 Murat Sözgelmez
* 14 Yannick Kamanan
* 18 Cihan Cihan Yılmaz
* 67 Uğur Kavuk
* 80 Akeem Agbetu
* 99 Faruk Bayar

Kobol vs. Galatasaray: 1-1

Galatasaray had a surprising draw today (1-1) against the Kazakh team Kobol in an away game. The lights went off after 40 mins, postponing the game for 12 minutes. It was a qualifier game for the UEFA Europa League. Frank Rijkaard's team consisted of mainly youngsters who won't, probably, be playing in the preferred squad of the team. Galatasaray started with a 4-3-3 formation, with 2 right wingers, and had to switch to 4-1-2-3 as the game progressed. It was Arda Turan and Milan Baros, two substitutes, who changed the game for the team.

Darius Vassel at Ankaragucu!

It is probably the most surprising transfer of the year: Ankaragucu has transferred Manchester City's Darius Vassell on a free transfer. He signed a 2+1 year contract and he will earn 900k Euros per year.

Ankaragucu is an interesting team with a passionate supporter group. They always manage to avoid relegation somehow and this year they will be celebrating their 100th year. Therefore, they are trying to build a strong squad that will fight for a ticktet to one of the European cups. Also, the media reports that Ankaragucu is interested in signing Sol Campbell.


Here is a video of how the fans welcomed him in Ankara airport.

Ankaragücü'nde Muhteşem Karşılama
Uploaded by agbbilisim. - Basketball, baseball, pro wrestling and more sports videos.

Mevlut Erding at PSG

Turkish website sporx.com reports that Sochaux's French-born strikers has signed a contract with Paris Saint Germain. He is a good player, who also plays for the Turkish national team, and and has fame for his flair, pace, and solemn attitude. Good luck to him at PSG, the national team needs him.

A clip of Erding from youtube:

Galatasaray gets the Kazakh Team Tobol in Europa League Qualifying Round

Galatasaray will play against Kobol on July 16 and 23 in the second round of UEFA Europa League qualifiers.

Here is how UEFA.com evaluated the draw:

Tobol may have been handed the toughest draw in the second qualifying round, where they take on Galatasaray, but FK Slavija Sarajevo did not have an easy ride either, drawing last season's UEFA Champions League group stage battlers Aalborg BK. Meanwhile, two of the most famous clubs in central Europe will meet at the same stage, as Romania's FC Steaua Bucureşti take on Újpest FC from neighbouring Hungary.

Pini Felix Balili Joins Antalyaspor!

Turkish media has reported today that Sivasspor's Israeli forward Pini Balili has signed a one-year contract with the Super League team Antalysapor. Balili was a very good player until he had a surgery last year, after which he lost his place in the team's squad. He was famous for his pace and flair, as well as enthusiasm for the team. He is one of the few foreign players in Turkey that can speak the Turkish language well. Good luck to him in Antalya.

Hugo Broos at Trabzonspor

TRABZON (A.A) - 22.06.2009 - Turkey's Turkcell Super League (first division) team Trabzonspor agreed in terms with Belgian coach Hugo Broos, the club announced on Monday.

"Hugo Broos has become our new coach," Trabzonspor said in a statement posted in its website.

Club's chairman Sadri Sener met with former Club Brugges and Anderlecht coach Broos in Istanbul and sides agreed at the meeting, it said.

Broos, 57, will fly to the northern city of Trabzon on Tuesday to sign the official contract, the statement said.

Broos coached Club Brugge and won two championships in 1992 an 1996. From 2003 to 2005 he coached Anderlecht and later he moved to KRC Genk. He also coached Greek club Panserraikos last year.

Servet Cetin at l'Olympique de Marseille?

The rumor has it that Galatasaray's, Turkish national team's, defender will complete a transfer deal to Olympique Marseille for 7 million euros. He is worth more than that, for sure, because Marseille is transfering a player who is absolutely going to do whatever is necessary to show the best performance for his club. He is a player I respect at Galatasaray, since he is kind of a professional who doesn't miss games for petty excuses. Former Galatasaray Eric Gerets is the person who advised him to Marseille, and, hopefully, he will show the same performance in France.

Luca Toni to Fenerbahce?

If Fenerbahce manages to sign Luca Toni, as it has been reported, it will probably be the most sensational transfer of the season (depending on Galatasaray's signings). I hear that Fenerbahce is offering up to 8 million euros to Bayern Munich, and, to me, it is a good enough figure for a player at that age. If he is signed, Toni will be working with the club's newly appointed German manager Christoph Daum, who will probably adopt a game style that relies on two strikers: Daniel Guiza and Luca Toni.
I don't remember an Italian player in the history of Fenerbahce, so if the deal goes through, it will be an interesting year.

Fale Alarm: Sven Goran Eriksson's transfer toTrabzonspor failed

Trabzonspor has failed to appoint Sven Goran Eriksson as the manager of the club. Their attempt to sign him was is an exciting and surprising decision to me, as Trabsonspor, traditionally, doesn't work with such high profile managers. Trabzon, located in the northern part of the country (by the Black Sea) is a relatively small city and known for their passionate and impatient supporters. Turkish media also reported that the main reason for Eriksson's refusal was due to hie "lady friend"'s reluctance to live in Trabzon.

Thomas Doll at Genclerbirligi!

Turkish Super League club Genclerbirligi has announced that they have appointed German manager Thomas Doll for 09/10 season. The club's president, Ilhan Cavcav, is infamous for his sackings of club's managers and I don't know how long Doll will survive in Ankara club. The team, famous for its B team and youth academy, managed to stay in the league last season after after a long battle. Prior to Doll, the club attempted to appoint Dutch manager Ad De Mos and Laszlo Bölöni, none of whom agreed on the terms.

I wish Doll good luck!

Frank Rijkaard at Galatasaray!

No Bernard Schuster, no Juande Ramos, no Ersun Yanal! Turkish Superleague giants Galatasaray have announced today that they have appointed the former Barca coach Rijkaard. To my knowledge, Rijkaard is the first dutch manager appointed to the duty at Galatasaray. I wish him good luck! Also, the club has announced that Johan Neeskens will be his assistant director.

Australians in Turkey and the Harry Kewell Prize!

In recent years, Turkish Superleague teams have signed numerous players from Australia. Especially, Genclerbirligi (located in the country's capital Ankara) has signed threes Australian youngsters, who have been doing quite well in the league: Bruce Djite (from Adelaide United, James Troisi (Newcastle United), and Mile Jedinak (Central Coast Mariners). Djite and Troisi, I think, will draw the attention of bigger Istanbul teams in the future. Genclerbirligi president Ilhan Cavcav is known for his excellent vision to find young talents all over the world and sell them with good transfer figures. I think he hit the jackpot again.

In addition to this, of course, there is Harry Kewell of Galatasaray. The Genclerbirligi website states that all the three above-mentioned players have been shortlisted to win the award which will be announced June 11.

Tuncay to Liverpool?

Trukish media has reported today that the Liverpool coach Rafa Benitez is interested in signing Tuncay Sanli from M'Boro. Tuncay has played particularly well this season at Boro, who was relegated to the First Division, and I think he can be a good boost to the Liverpool bench. I can envision him being at least as effective as Yosi Benayoun under the Liverpool jersey.

Friendly Match: Turkey 2 - Azerbaijan 0

Kayser Kadir Has Stadium was full of Turkish supporters cheering for the national team. Turkey, whose players were obviously tired after a long season, did their best and secured a 2-0 win. I didn't know that Berti Vogts was Azerbaijan's coach. It looks like that he will need some time to really shape up the team. Here are the goals:



Here is the squad list:

Turkey: Volkan Demierl, Ceyhun Gulselam (min. 58 Yusuf Simsek), Mehmet Topal, Gokhan Gonul, Nihat Kahveci(min. 46 Halil Altintop), Semih Senturk (min. 70 Sabri Sarioglu), Nuri , Tuncay Sanli (min. 63 Sercan Yildirim), Colin Kazim Richards (min. 46 Arda), Ibrahim Uzulmez (min. 78 Caner Erkin), Eren Gungor.

Azerbaijan: Valiyev, Malikov, Shukurov (min. 46 Chertogonov), Nabiyev (min. 46 Bakhshiev), Abasov, Gomes (min. 46 Javadov), Sadigov, Huseynov (min. 56 Pereira), Maharramov, Akhtyamov (min. 83 Subasic), Levin

2008-2009 Superleague Champions: Besiktas!

Mustafa Denizli's Besiktas did it this year. After a six-year wait, the club won both the league and Turkish cup.

Here is the final League Standing:

Süper Lig - 2008/2009
Pos. Team Pld W D L GF GA Pts
1 Beşiktaş 34 21 8 5 60 30 71
2 Sivasspor 34 19 9 6 54 28 66
3 Trabzonspor 34 19 8 7 54 34 65
4 Fenerbahçe 34 18 7 9 60 36 61
5 Galatasaray 34 18 7 9 57 39 61
6 Bursaspor 34 16 10 8 47 36 58
7 Kayserispor 34 13 11 10 38 26 50
8 Gaziantepspor 34 12 11 11 46 48 47
9 İstanbul BB 34 12 6 16 37 46 42
10 Ankaraspor 34 11 8 15 36 42 41
11 Eskişehirspor 34 10 10 14 45 49 40
12 Antalyaspor 34 10 10 14 34 42 40
13 Ankaragücü 34 11 6 17 36 47 39
14 Konyaspor 34 10 8 16 35 46 38
15 Gençlerbirliği 34 10 8 16 38 50 38
16 Denizlispor 34 11 5 18 39 52 38
17 Kocaelispor 34 8 5 21 47 73 29
18 Hacettepe 34 5 7 22 24 63 22

Turkcell Super League Table

1.BEŞİKTAŞ 68
2.SİVASSPOR 66

3.TRABZONSPOR 65
4.FENERBAHÇE 58
5.GALATASARAY 58

6.BURSASPOR 55
7.KAYSERİSPOR 47
8.GAZİANTEPSPOR 46
9.BÜYÜKŞEHİR 42
10.ANKARASPOR 41
11.ESKİŞEHİRSPOR 39
12.ANKARAGÜCÜ 39
13.GENÇLERBİR 38
14.DENİZLİSPOR 38
15.ANTALYASPOR 37

16.KONYASPOR 35
17.KOCAELİSPOR 26
18.HACETTEPE 22

Jose Couceiro at Gaziantepspor

Gaziantepspor president Ibrahim Kizil has announced that former Porto and Lithuania manager Jose Couceiro signed a contract for the team. Couciero will be in control of the team for 2 years (plus 4-year option). Gaziantepspor has done surprisingly well in the league this season. Especially the Brazilan attacking midfielder Rodrigo Tabata's performance has drawn the attention of the Turkish media. Couciero will find a determined team and a city that is looking forward to seeing a club that is running for the title.

Muhsin Ertugral to Switch Teams?

Ertugral top choice to coach Ajax

SISA MAJOLA

JOHANNESBURG - In soccer’s worst kept secret, Ajax Cape Town and coach Craig Rosslee officially parted ways this week.

But speculation was already rife about Rosslee’s future with sources saying that he had already handed in his resignation to the club two weeks ago, a few days before the team’s final Premiership encounters against Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns.

As it turns out, Ajax might yet have another “open secret” in store with their former coach Muhsin Ertugral earmarked to take over the reins again at the Urban Warriors for the next three seasons.

The Turkish trainer broke ties with Kaizer Chiefs last weekend after enduring an acrimonious two-year stint with the glamour club.

Ertugral was also rumoured to be roping in Shaun Bartlett for the assistant-coach role, something that the former Bafana Bafana striker has denied.

Bartlett had said earlier this week that he “was considering some playing and coaching offers” but distanced himself from speculation by releasing a statement saying that “there would be many issues to consider were I to return to the Mother City.”

The 36-year-old terminated his stint with Bloemfontein Celtic earlier in the season but has yet to decide whether to carry on playing or shift his focus elsewhere.

Ajax’s chief executive George Comitis admits that getting Ertugral back into the fold of the things at Ikamva would be the club’s first option.

Ertugral led a youthful Ajax side to an Absa Cup vctory in 2007, unearthing young gems like Bryce Moon, Clifford Ngobeni and a relatively unknown Nigerian called Eyong Enoh, who went on to sign for mother club Ajax Amsterdam.

“Ertugral is definitely our first option, but he also has an offer from Egypt that he is considering,” Comitis said.

“Our aim is to get a coach who will take little time to adapt and get us out of the blocks quickly enough next season.”

The club might run a risk of losing star striker Mabhudi Khenyeza if the 49-year-old coach does indeed join.

Ironically, it was through irreconcilable differences between Khenyeza and Ertugral that the marksmen made the move from Chiefs to Ajax earlier in the season. He famously said that he would never be coached by a man noted for his abrasive temper.

But Comitis does not foresee any issues if both men are reunited.

“There will not be a problem there,” said Comitis. “They are both professionals and Khenyeza has a three-year contract with us.”


Source: http://www.citizen.co.za/index/article.aspx?pDesc=95881,1,22

Luis Aragones's future at Fenerbahce Doubtful

Luis Aragones has purposed drained his last chance today after losing against Besiktas in Turkish Cup final. The club's president, Aziz Yildirim, is planning to remain as the the president for one more term, and he is rumored to be planning to replace Aragones with one of these managers: Christoph Daum, Mircea Lucescu, Frank Rijkaard or Paul Le Guen.

Besiktas wins the Turkish Cup

Besiktas wins the Turkish Cup for the third time in the last four years today, beating Fenerbahce 4-2. Throughout the game Besiktas players looked more ambitious and enthusiastic and dominated the game.

Here are the goals:

Beşiktaş 4 - 2 Fenerbahçe (Fortis Türkiye Kupası 13.05.209
Uploaded by marmarahaber - Discover the latest sports and extreme videos.

Bernd Schuster at Galatasaray (?)

Goal.com reports:

Bernd Schuster, who has been out of a job in football ever since his Real Madrid exit back in December last year, has been reported to have sign a principle contract with Turkish giants, Galatasaray, to become their new coach for the 2009/10 campaign.

According to Barcelona-based daily, Sport, the Augsburg-born trainer has penned a one year term with the Istanbul outfit with the option of another season if he can ensure the club a place in European competition.

Schuster is expected to pocket around €2 million, a figure that will increase with bonuses if he can guide the team to the league title and qualification to the Champions League.

The newspaper also reports that Schuster himself has given the deal the thumbs up after the confidence shown in him by the club board and all that is needed now to seal the agreement is an official confirmation.

Galatasaray, last season’s Turkcell Super Lig champions, are currently fourth in the table, seven points adrift of the Champions League qualifying zone.

KS Leong, Goal.com

Source: http://www.goal.com/en-india/news/222/transfer-zone/2009/05/06/1248692/former-real-madrid-coach-bernd-schuster-joins-galatasaray-report

Recent Transfer Rumors in Turkey

Turkish media has recently reported that:

1- Real Madrid's Javier Saviola will sign with Galatasaray.
2- Ottmar Hitzfeld will be Galatasaray's manager next season.
3- Either PSG's manager Paul LeGuen or FC Cologne's Christoph Daum will return to Fenerbahce.
4- Sochaux Turkish forward Mevlut Erdinc will transfer to Aston Villa, Fulham or Wigan Athletic.
5- Werder Bremen's Claudio Pizzaro will transfer to Galatasaray.

Alex de Souza and Deivid de Souza Extend at Fenerbahce

Fenerbahce's Alex de Souza and Deivid de Souza extended their contracts with Fenerbahce SK. They have had very disappointing performances this year and both of them have suffered serious injuries. Also, Turkish media has recently reported that these two players are in bad terms as a result of their wives' verbal fights.



Additionally, Turkish media has also reported that Alex and Luis Aragones do not get along well and the extension of Alex's contract shows that Aragones's future at the club is dubious.

Turkish Super League Table

Played Wins Losses Draws For Against Points
1. Sivas 29 17 9 3 46 19 60
2. Beşiktaş 29 17 8 4 48 24 59
3. Trabzon 29 15 8 6 40 28 53
4. Galatasaray 29 15 7 7 51 33 52
5. Fenerbahçe 29 14 6 9 50 31 48
6. Bursa 29 13 9 7 38 31 48
7. Kayseri 29 10 11 8 29 21 41
8. Ankaraspor 29 11 7 11 35 32 40
9. Gaziantep 29 10 9 10 36 39 39
10. Antalya 29 9 8 12 30 36 35
11. Gençlerbirliği 29 9 8 12 31 37 35
12. Ankaragücü 29 9 6 14 31 42 33
13. Eskişehir 29 8 9 12 36 39 33
14. Denizli 29 9 5 15 33 44 32
15. Konya 29 8 8 13 27 37 32
16. Büyükşehir Bld. 29 8 6 15 28 41 30
17. Kocaeli 29 7 5 17 38 60 26
18. Hacettepe 29 4 7 18 20 53 19

Luis Aragones Having Tough Times at Fenerbahce

After the Vicente del Bosque experience at Besiktas, I thought no Turkish team would transfer a Spanish coach again. But I was wrong when Fenerbahce appointed Aragones this year. Like del Bosque, he has been an absolute failure in Turkey. It is perhaps as a result of the players' mentality in Turkey. The team has no discipline whatsoever and the players seem to ignore his instructions. The Turkish media labels him as "grandpa," since he looks very solemn, quiet, and unresponsive during the team's matches. Something tells me that he won't be around next year.

Platini in Turkey

UEFA PRESIDENT ARRIVES IN TURKEY


ISTANBUL (A.A) - 22.04.2009 - The head of the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) arrived in the Turkish city of Istanbul on Wednesday.

UEFA President Michel Platini is visiting Turkey as the guest of Turkish Football Federation.

"I will take the UEFA Cup from FC Zenit of Russia, the champion of last year, and give it to Istanbul Municipality to be displayed," Platini told reporters at the airport.

Platini said that he would visit the Fenerbahce Sukru Saracoglu Stadium (in the Anatolian side of Istanbul) and see the preparations for the UEFA Cup final.

The UEFA president will visit the stadium on Thursday together with executives of the Turkish Football Federation and UEFA Vice President Senes Erzik.

Platini will then participate in the hand-over ceremony of the UEFA Cup at the Esma Sultan Mansion in Ortakoy neighborhood (the European side of Istanbul). Executives of Russia's Zenit team will hand over the cup to Platini, who will later give it to Istanbul Mayor Kadir Topbas.

UEFA President Platini, Vice President Erzik and Mahmut Ozgener, the chairman of the Turkish Football Federation, will hold a press conference after the hand-over ceremony.

The UEFA Cup final will take place at the Fenerbahce Sukru Saracoglu Stadium on May 20.

Source: http://haber.turk.net/ENG/2264107/-SPO--UEFA-PRESIDENT-ARRIVES-IN-TURKEY

From Glasgow Rangers to Kocaelispor: Maurice Ross

I heard that Maurice Ross was known as a "troublemaker" while he was in Rangers. I also heard that he was called to the Scottish national team by Berti Vogts at a really early age. Then, he spent some time Wolverhampton Wanderers, Milwall and Viking. He is now in the Turkish league, playing for Kocaelispor. He seems to have adapted well, playing as a right back. If Kocaelispor manages to avoid relegation, I hope he can stay and add to the diversity in the league.

Harry Kewell to Fulham?

Turkish media has reported recently that Fulham manager Roy Hodgson is interested in securing the services of Harry Kewell from Galatasaray. He has done absolutely well in Galatasray this year and deserves to be the player of the year. He is one of the few players who are trying their best to win the game!!! Especially his goal against Bordeaux in the second round of the UEFA Cup was unforgettable.

Can Sivasspor be the Next Champion in Turkey?

They tried it last year and failed to succeed. Sivasspor, a surprisingly successful in Turkish football in recent years, is also the leading team in Turkey this year. What is especially surprising about this team is that they are probably the only team in Turkey that has a sound scouting system. Fabio Bilica and Yannick Kamanan especially are two important results of that system.

If they claim the title this year, they will be the fifth team to win the Turkish Premier League in history (After Galatasaray, Besiktas, Fenerbahce, and Trabzonspor).

Players to watch: Sezer Badur, Mehmet Yilmaz, Hayrettin Yerlikaya, Mamadou Diallo (from Guinea), and Abdurrahman Dereli.

Bosphorus Derby Disappointment: Galatasaray 0 - Fenerbahce 0

April 12, 2009. Locale Istanbul Ali Sami Yen Stadium.

Galatasaray and Fenerbahce derbies are the most talked-about and controversial matches in Turkish football and their impact is extremely high in the country. This year's games were no different. Completely a classic. Today's match produced 4 red cards, but no goals, while both teams have decreased their chances for the title. From Gala Emre Asik, Arda Turan and from Fener Diego Lugano and Semih Senturk were sent off in the last minute of the match for violent behavior.



It is quite likely that both teams will end up sacking their managers, Luis Aragones an Bulent Korkmaz, at the end of the season, and in the case of Fener go through a serious process of rebuilding in the squad.

What was particularly surprising in today's game was Arda and Semih, two great friends in the national team, had to quarrel and be sent off.



Here are the final moments of the Game:

Galatasaray - Fenerbahce derby emvrouille!
Uploaded by Tthuglife69

Tobias Linderoth

He could have been a big hero for Galatasaray fans, but unfortunately his injuries prevented him from being so. I have always admired the Swede's tenacity, professionalism, and willingness to play for his team. But it just didn't happen for him in Turkey. Galatasaray board is seriously thinking to terminate his contract, and I've heard that he might be moving to Elfsborg, back to Sweden. What is interesting with Linderoth is that during the 1,5 years he spent at Galatasaray, he had about 5-6 weeks to play. The rest of the time, he was always injured. I know how big a deal he is among the Swedish fans!

Sinan Ayranci

It is said that a prospective Zlatan Ibrahimovic lives in Sweden. Brommapojkarna's Sinan Ayranci, who is of Turkish descent, is in Galatasaray's transfer list. He is a towering striker. He has 1.90 cm height. Turkish media has reported that he is also in the transfer list of Juventus and Internazionale.

Cassio Lincoln (and an Interview!)

Turkish media have reported today that Galatasaray's Cassio Lincoln is once more out of the team's coach Bulent Korkmaz's squad. Galatasaray will play against Gaziantepspor on April 6 in Gaziantep Kamil Ocak Stadium.

And a relatively new Lincoln interview and the dispute with Bulent Korkmaz.

Turkey vs. Spain

Turkey's high hopes to qualify for WC 2010 were demolished by Spain. After losing the game at Barnebau (1-0), the Turkish team once more lost to Spain in Istanbul Ali Sami Yen Stadium (2-1).
Here is a report from Goal.com.


Spain's Riera And Silva Could Start On The Wings Against Turkey - Report

The pair were part of the practice side that trained today before the team left for Turkey...
Mar 30, 2009 9:42:48 AM

Spain could start with both Albert Riera and David Silva on the flanks for their game with Turkey this Wednesday after the pair trained together with the first team in the last session before they flew out to southern Europe.

Neither the Liverpool man nor the Valencia star were in the starting XI on Saturday evening and without them Spain did labour at times to break down Turkey.

Even though they managed to come away with a victory, Marca reports that Vicente del Bosque could now change things around for the away trip.

The big news is the possible inclusion of Riera and Silva, and also the fact that he could well drop either David Villa or Xavi.

In the practice game today, which was ten against ten, the two wingers had Marcos Senna and Xabi Alonso on their inside, which meant no space for Xavi.

Fernando Torres was the man up front on his own, and there was also a change in defence, where Carlos Marchena played instead of his Valencia team-mate, Raul Albiol.

The former could well replace Albiol at the back for the game with Turkey and if so he would partner Gerard Pique in the centre of defence.

The Barcelona youngster grabbed the only goal of the game at the Bernabeu and played a major role in the victory.

James Walker-Roberts, Goal.com

Now, goals.

THE FIRST GAME

Espagne Vs Turkey Resume 28/03/2009 WC2010
Uploaded by azarer

THE SECOND GAME

Turquie Espagne
Uploaded by BradGX

Group 5 Standing

Group 5 Team MP W D L GF GA Pts
Spain 6 6 0 0 13 2 18
Bosnia 6 4 0 2 18 7 12
Turkey 6 2 2 2 6 5 8
Belgium 6 2 1 3 10 11 7
Estonia 6 1 2 3 5 15 5
Armenia 6 0 1 5 3 15 1

Cassio Lincoln Also To Zenit?

Turkish media has today reported that Galatasaray's Lincoln is on Zenit Petersburg's transfer list for summer 2009. Lincoln has been having difficulties with Gala's new manager Bulent Korkmaz who left him out of the team's squad recently.

CSKA Moscow allegedly offered Gala a 13M for Lincoln last, which was refused by the club. It is quite unlikely to get an offer that is remotely close to this amount now, and probably Lincoln's any transfer will be resolved by FIFA. Lincoln is under contract with Gala unit the end of 2010.

Spain Prepare for Turkey Clasy with Injury Problems

On Tuesday midday the Spanish national squad will come together in Madrid to prepare for the upcoming World Cup qualifying games against Turkey, with several injury problems.

Little Andres Iniesta, who was so important in Spain's Euro 2008 triumph, will miss both games against the Turks after pulling a muscle in his right thigh in Barcelona's 6-0 thrashing of Malaga on Sunday.



Iniesta will fly into Madrid with a note from Barca head doctor Ricard Pruna explaining his injury, and will then return to Barcelona to convalesce for two weeks.

National manager Vicente del Bosque now has to decide whether to replace Iniesta - the three candidates are Juan Mata of Valencia, Diego Capel of Sevilla and Angel Lafita of Deportivo Coruna - or whether to get by with a squad of 21.

Iniesta's Barca team-mate Xavi - voted most valuable player at Euro 2008 - suffered a badly bruised Achilles tendon in the Malaga game, but will probably stay with the Spain squad.

However, he might be doubtful for Saturday's home game against the Turks in Real Madrid's Estadio Santiago Bernabeu.

Two other Euro 2008 heroes doubtful for Saturday are the Valencia pair of David Villa and David Silva.

Villa has been out for three weeks with a twisted knee, Silva has been struggling with ankle problems all season.

Del Bosque has made an excellent start in the Spain job since taking over from Luis Aragones last July, winning all six of his matches and keeping 'La Roja' at the top of the FIFA world rankings.

He has resisted the tempatation to bring back Real Madrid captain Raul, despite the campaign of the Madrid sports papers to do so. He explained his decision to overlook Raul - who has not been called up since 2006 - by saying that 'I do not want to break up the spirit of this squad.'

Del Bosque said on Monday night that Turkey - who flew in to Madrid on Monday - is 'a strong team, with players who are aggressive, military, patriotic...and very hard.'

He singled out Villarreal star Nihat Kahveci and Betis midfielder Mehmet Aurelio for special praise.

Del Bosque was coach at Turkish giants Besiktas for seven months in the 2004/5 season. He said that it is 'a very welcoming country, with excellent food,' but that Besiktas were 'not very patient with me.'

Spain are top of qualifying group 5 with 12 points from four games, four points above Fatih Terim's team.

Source:

Duncan Shaw Mar 24, 2009

http://www.monstersandcritics.com/news/europe/features/article_1466487.php/Spain_prepare_for_Turkey_clash_with_injury_problems__Feature__

Spain vs. Turkey and Vice Versa

Turkey plays against Spain twice in 4 days to qualify for 2010 World Cup. 28 March in Barnebau, and 1 April in Ali Sami Yen stadium in Istanbul.

I can't make any predictions when the Turkish National team plays. So far, they had 1 home-game draw against Belgium (1-1) and an away-game one against Estonia (0-0). And beat Armenia!

To me, Spain will win the first game, but the second leg will be EXTREMELY difficult for them!

Now, the squads:

Turkey:

GK: Volkan Demirel (Fenerbahçe), Rüştü Reçber (Beşiktaş), Ufuk Ceylan (Manisaspor)

DEFENCE: Gökhan Gönül (Fenerbahçe), Sabri Sarıoğlu, Emre Aşık, Hakan Kadir Balta (Galatasaray), Sedat Bayrak (Sivasspor), İbrahim Kaş (Getafe), Eren Güngör (Kayserispor), İbrahim Üzülmez (Beşiktaş)

MIDFIELDERS: Hamit Altıntop (Bayern Münih), Kazım Kazım, Emre Belözoğlu (Fenerbahçe), Ayhan Akman, Arda Turan (Galatasaray), Mehmet Aurelio (Real Betis), Nuri Şahin (Borussia Dortmund), Tuncay Şanlı (Middlesbrough)

ATTACKERS/STRIKERS: Nihat Kahveci (Villarreal), Batuhan Karadeniz (Eskişehirspor), Semih Şentürk (Fenerbahçe) , Mevlüt Erdinç (Sochaux), Gökhan Ünal (Trabzonspor), Sercan Yıldırım (Bursaspor).


SPAIN:

Oh my, Oh my!

GK: Iker Casillas, Pepe Reina, Diego Lopez

DEF: Arbeloa, Sergio Ramos, Raúl Albiol, Carlos Marchena, Juanito, Capdevila y Piqué

MF: Iniesta, Xavi, Busquets, Silva, Xabi Alonso, Riera, Senna , Cazorla

FW/ST: David Villa, Fernando Torres, Fernando Llorente , Dani Güiza

Cassio Lincoln Flees (?) to Brazil!

Turkish media has reported today that Galatasaray's Lincoln went to Brazil, albeit without any authorization from the club, to spend the 15-day World Cup Qualifiers break. Lincoln has recently been in dispute with the club's new manager, legendary "captain" Bulent Korkmaz, who left him on the bench in the games against Trabzonspor (A) and Hamburg (H, Uefa Cup). I think Lincoln has realized that there is no more a future for him in the club, and wants to decrease his transfer fee by creating these complications. It is also highly probable that his annual salary, 3.2 M Euros, becomes a problem among the team members who are paid less.

Lincoln was once the darling of the Gala supporters, now he is no more than a black sheep!

Humiliation!

Only a Turkish team could have done this! Jealousies and rifts within the squad, easy loss of concentration, phantasmic view of reality! And the bill is a 2-3 Hamburg comeback!

UEFA.COM's Match Report:

Galatasaray undone by art of Guerrero

José Paolo Guerrero was the hero for Hamburger SV, scoring two stunning strikes as the German side came from 2-0 down to beat Galatasaray AŞ and claim their place in Friday's UEFA Cup quarter-final draw.

Quality goals
Already conceding a minor edge to their Turkish hosts after shipping an away goal in the 1-1 first-leg draw, Hamburg's hopes hung by a thread with 33 minutes remaining in Istanbul. Two goals in seven minutes either side of half-time from Harry Kewell, a penalty, and Milan Baroš had stacked the odds in Galatasaray's favour, but the hosts had not counted on Guerrero. The Peruvian international reduced the arrears with a blistering long-range drive just before the hour and, three minutes later, it was all-square as he rounded off a counterattack in some style. Already leading on the away-goals rule, Ivica Olić sealed a 4-3 aggregate win for Martin Jol's men in added time with a deft lob.

Baroš endeavor
It was Olić who had given early warning of what was to come for the hosts as Hamburg started brightly, the Croatian striker forcing Morgan De Sanctis to tip over his dipping header. At the other end Baroš struggled to make an impact against Joris Mathijsen, yet when he did escape his towering sentinel three minutes before half-time he made it pay, drawing a foul from Jerome Boateng and stand-in central defender Kewell converted from the spot.




Guerrero spirit
Hamburg's task got even harder four minutes after half-time when Arda Turan, a doubt before the game with a knee problem, cleverly worked space on the edge of the penalty area before delivering a perfectly-weighted ball for Baroš to adroitly lift over the onrushing Frank Rost. If that goal was all grace then, at the other end, Guerrero's goal to make it 2-1 was all pace as he rifled in from 25 metres. By the hour mark Hamburg had the initiative as Collin Benjamin's long ball forward eventually found Guerrero, who danced past three defenders before firing in and there was no way back for the shell-shocked hosts when Olić struck in added time.

©uefa.com 1998-2009. All rights reserved.

Here are the Goals:

Galatasaray or Hamburg for Quarter-Finals?

Match Background from UEFA.COM:

Hamburger SV are preparing to feel the full force of Galatasaray AŞ's fearsome home support when the two teams meet in Istanbul, with their UEFA Cup Round of 16 tie delicately poised at 1-1.

• Ayhan Akman gave Galatasaray the lead in Hamburg, but Marcell Jansen replied after the break, with the visitors playing much of the second half with ten men following Emre Aşık's dismissal for a professional foul.

• The first leg was Hamburg and Galatasaray's first meeting in UEFA club competition.

• Hamburg have now played four games against Turkish sides in Europe, with the first three in the UEFA Intertoto Cup. Their record in those games reads P4 W2 D2 L0. Their only previous match in Turkey ended in a 2-2 draw at Trabzonspor in the 1999 UEFA Intertoto Cup.

• Having won 1-0 at Hertha BSC Berlin in the group stage – with the attendance swelled by members of the German capital's Turkish community – Galatasaray's record against Bundesliga opponents now reads P23 W6 D11 L6. Their record at home against German sides reads P10 W2 D7 L1, with that sole defeat a 1-0 loss against BV Borussia Dortmund in the 1997/98 UEFA Champions League group stage.

• Prior to the first leg, Hamburg coach Martin Jol had only been involved in one game against a Turkish club, when his Tottenham Hotspur FC side triumphed 2-0 at Beşiktaş JK in the 2006/07 UEFA Cup group stage.

• Bülent Korkmaz is picking the team at Galatasaray, though Cevat Güler is officially the club's coach as the former defender does not have the appropriate licence.

• Galatasaray have plenty of connections to Germany, with two Germans having been in charge of first-team affairs in the past 12 months: Karl-Heinz Feldkamp, who remains at the club in an advisory role, and Michael Skibbe, who was replaced by Korkmaz on 23 February 2009.

• No fewer than seven Galatasaray players were born in Germany:
– Serkan Çalik was born in Dinslaken and started his career with SC Rot-Weiss Essen.
– German Under-21 international Barış Özbek was born in Castrop-Rauxel and also started his career with Rot-Weiss Essen.
– Aykut Erçetin was born in Goppingen and began with VfB Stuttgart.
– Alparslan Erdem was born in Vechta and started his career with Werder Bremen.
– Volkan Yaman was born in Munich and started his career with TSV 1860 München.
– Hakan Balta was born in Berlin and started his career with Hertha.
– Ümit Karan was also born in Berlin and started his career with local Turkish side Türkiyemspor Berlin.

• The current Hamburg side also has Turkish connections, with their 18-year-old striker Tunay Torun having turned down an approach to play for Germany's Under-19 side in favour of Turkey's, despite having been born in Hamburg.

• Hamburg goalkeeper Frank Rost and Galatasaray playmaker Lincoln were team-mates at FC Schalke 04 from 2004 to 2007.

• Hamburg defender Michael Gravgaard and Galatasaray midfielder Tobias Linderoth were team-mates at FC København from 2005 to 2007. Linderoth played in the København side that lost 2-1 on aggregate to Hamburg in the first round of the 2005/06 UEFA Cup.

• Former Beşiktaş and Fenerbahçe SK goalkeeper Özcan Arkoç also provides a strong connection between Hamburg and Turkey. Now 69, he played for Hamburg from 1967 to 1975 and later became the club's assistant coach – helping Kuno Klötzer's side win the 1976/77 UEFA Cup Winners' Cup – before taking sole command from 1977 to 1978.

• Hamburg's Ivica Olić and Mladen Petrić played in the Croatia team that lost out to a Turkey side featuring Galatasaray's Emre Aşık, Mehmet Topal, Hakan Balta, Sabri Sarıoğlu and Arda Turan on penalties in the UEFA EURO 2008™ quarter-finals. The teams drew 1-1 in Vienna, with Turkey winning 3-1 on penalties. Petrić had his spot-kick saved by Rüstü Reçber.

• Galatasaray's Mehmet Topal, Hakan Balta, Ayhan Akman and Sabri were also members of the Turkey side that lost 3-2 to a Germany team featuring Hamburg's Jansen in the semi-finals of the same competition. Jansen also played in Germany's 2-1 friendly defeat by Turkey in October 2005.

• Jansen likewise featured in the Germany team that won 2-1 away to the Czech Republic in UEFA EURO 2008™ qualifying, with Galatasaray's Milan Baroš on the scoresheet for the hosts. Baroš was also on target as the Czechs beat Germany 2-1 at UEFA EURO 2004™ to knock them out of the competition at the group stage.

• Hamburg's Petrić and Galatasaray's Shabani Nonda have met in two previous European ties. Nonda's Blackburn Rovers FC beat Petrić's FC Basel 1893 3-0 in a 2006/07 UEFA Cup group-stage game and both players scored once as Nonda's AS Roma overcame Petrić's Basel 3-1 at the same phase of the previous season's competition.

• Last season, Galatasaray were knocked out of the UEFA Cup Round of 32 by German opposition, losing 5-1 at Bayer 04 Leverkusen after drawing the home leg 0-0.

• Galatasaray are one of four sides left in the UEFA Cup who qualified for 2008/09 European competition as domestic league champions, the others being Aalborg BK (Denmark), FC Shakhtar Donetsk (Ukraine) and FC Zenit St. Petersburg (Russia).

• Galatasaray are also one of four clubs still in the competition to have won the UEFA Cup along with AFC Ajax (1991/92), PFC CSKA Moskva (2004/05) and Zenit (2007/08).

• Hamburg have lost only once in nine European games this season, 1-0 at home against Ajax in the UEFA Cup group stage.

• They have lost just once in their last eleven European away games, 1-0 at Bayer 04 Leverkusen in last season's Round of 16, and have won all of their away games in the UEFA Cup this season, scoring at least twice in each.

• Galatasaray are unbeaten in their last four UEFA club competition games since losing 1-0 at home against FC Metalist Kharkiv in the group stage.

• The Turkish champions have lost just once in their last seven European home games, 1-0 against Metalist in this season's UEFA Cup group stage.

• Six-goal Olić is Hamburg's most dangerous marksman in Europe this season, though team-mate Petrić is snapping at his heels on five goals.

• Baroš is Galatasaray's top European goalscorer this season with four efforts, while team-mate Harry Kewell has scored three.

• Korkmaz is the only coach left in the competition to have won the UEFA Cup as a player, triumphing with his current side in the 1999/00 edition.

• Hamburg, fourth in the Bundesliga in 2007/08, topped UEFA Cup Group F and beat NEC Nijmegen comfortably in the Round of 32, winning 3-0 in the Netherlands and 1-0 at home.

• Galatasaray, for their part, came second in UEFA Cup Group B and beat FC Girondins de Bordeaux in dramatic style in the Round of 32, drawing 0-0 in France before prevailing 4-3 in Istanbul thanks to Sabri's late winner in Korkmaz's first game in charge.

• Galatasaray's only UEFA club competition penalty shoot-out ended 4-1 in their favour against Arsenal FC in the final of the 1999/2000 UEFA Cup. The match had ended 0-0 after extra time.

• Hamburg's only UEFA club competition penalty shoot-out to date ended in defeat by Sparta Rotterdam, the German club losing 4-3 on spot-kicks after a 2-2 aggregate draw in the 1985/86 UEFA Cup first round.

• Galatasaray's Emre Aşık is suspended, while Lincoln and Barış Özbek are within a caution of a suspension. Milan Baroš is available again after serving a one-match ban.

• Hamburg's Jerome Boateng and José Paolo Guerrero are within a booking of a ban.

• The draw for the quarter-finals and semi-finals takes place in Nyon on 20 March, exactly two months before the final at the Şükrü Saracoğlu Stadium – the home ground of Galatasaray's city rivals Fenerbahçe – in Istanbul on 20 May.

©uefa.com 1998-2009. All rights reserved.

Meira Falters in Debut Performance: Spartak 1- Zenit 1

Fernando Meira's debut performance in Russia was hampered by his costly mistake on the second minute of the game, which reminds us of his mistake in the UEFA match between Galatasaray and Bordeaux.

Turkcell Super League Live Match Coverage

Watch live video from Sportx on Justin.tv

Euro 2016: Will it be held in Turkey?

If UEFA's recent policy on supporting countries that invest in Football continues, there's no reason for Turkey not to be granted to host the Euro 2016 campaign. The other bids: Sweden-Norway, Italy, and France have good chances too. Especially the Scandinavian duo seems to be the luckiest bidder at this point.

Turkey has a couple of good stadiums in good shape:

In Istanbul,

Ataturk Olimpiyat Stadium (81000 seats)

Sukru Saracoglu Stadium (51000 seats)

Turk Telekom Arena (tbc 2010, expected 52000 seats)

Inonu Stadium (32000 seats)

in Kayseri:

Kadir Has Stadium (32000)



Also, it's been recently announced that Trabzon, Antalya, and Izmir will be getting new stadiums.

Here's the CNN International news link:


(CNN) -- European football powerhouses France and Italy will battle it out to host the European Championships in 2016 and also face competition from Turkey and a joint bid from Norway and Sweden.

The four bids were submitted to UEFA before the official deadline of midnight on Monday and a final decision will be made in May next year.

Italy also bid for Euro 2012, which is to be joint-hosted by Poland and Ukraine, while France will hope the presence of Michel Platini as UEFA president will work in their favor.

Turkey have never hosted a major football finals, while Norway and Sweden have joined together to attempt to bring the championship finals back to Scandinavia.

The Euro 2016 finals will see the number of qualifying teams increased from 16 to 24, a move which contributed to the decision of Scotland and Wales to end their interest in staging a joint bid because of the increased level of infrastructure required.

Italy last held the European championships in 1980 and France were hosts in 1984.

UEFA said in a statement issued on its Web site on Tuesday:

"France, Italy, and Turkey have informed UEFA they wish to submit a single bid, while a joint bid will be presented by Norway/Sweden.

"UEFA will now review the eligibility of the interested candidates, based on the various technical requirements relating to the potential infrastructure needed as well as any previous experience of the relevant member associations, cities and venues in organizing multi-venue sports events, before confirming the official list of bidders."

http://edition.cnn.com/2009/SPORT/football/03/10/uefa.bids/

Galatasaray Steals a Draw in Hamburg While Ayhan Akman Scores the 1000th Goal

Result: 1-1

This one was one of the Galatasaray miracles. If you are interested in seeing Harry Kewell playing as a central defender, make sure that you take a look at the highlights. I couldn't quite figure out why Olic wasn't in the starting line-up for Hamburg.

Meira Completes Transfer Move to Zenit.

Galatasaray takes all the risks in their 08/09 UEFA Cup Campaign. With the serious absences of Servet Cetin and Emre Gungor, the team sold the only defender (along with the veteran Emre Asik) to Zenit. I hope it won't cost the team a UEFA Cup and the Turkish League.


Here is a news link about the transfer.

Meira “enthusiastic” about Zenit move
Defender completes Russia switch
Meira
Fernando Meira says he has mixed feelings about his transfer to Zenit St Petersburg, after completing a 6.5m euro move from Galatasaray.

The Portuguese defender only arrived in Turkey last summer from German side Stuttgart, but the champions have had a somewhat turbulent season, with a poor defensive record contributing to Gala currently sitting in 5th place in the Super Lig.

Meira has shouldered some of the blame for the team’s defensive shortcomings, but rumours that the club were happy to offload the former Benfica man have been downplayed by Meira, who insists the team are still in a good position.

“I am leaving a team which won the super cup, is still in the Uefa Cup today and who are gaining ground in the championship, and still have to play the first-placed teams. It is the best proof that it is false that the directors wanted to transfer me."

On the move to Russia, Meira added: “I feel sad because I am leaving a great club, with fantastic supporters and a city I love. But on the other hand, I am happy and full of enthusiasm because I am going to a winning club which presented an irrefutable offer.

“My price tag? It obliges me to concentrate and work harder in my day-to-day work. I will continue to give my best for my club,” concluded the Guimaraes man, who will wear the number three shirt at the Petrovsky Stadium.

By Sean Gillen

http://www.portugoal.net/index.php/more-zenit-news/741-meira-qenthusiasticq-about-zenit-move

Telegol!

Enjoy the famous TV program, Telegol. Date: March 1, 2009

The program is in Turkish.


Part 1



Part 2



Part 3

Meira heading for Zenit?

Turkish media has reported that Galatasaray's Portuguese defender Fernando Meira's transfer to Russian giants Zenit St. Petersburg is completed. Meira has been in poor form recently drawing criticism both from fans and the media on the grounds that the transfer speculations affected his performances.

http://www.fernando-meira.de/

Match of the Day: Atletico Madrid- Barcelona

This was an amazing game. A classico between Atletico-Barça rivalry....

Atletico Madrid 4 - 3 Barcelona Highlights
Uploaded by psg87280

March 1, 2009: Galatasaray beats Konya

New Galatasaray AŞ coach Bülent Korkmaz has warned that "this is just the beginning for me and my team" after overcoming FC Girondins de Bordeaux 4-3 in his first match in charge to reach the last 16 of the UEFA Cup.

Immediate impact
Korkmaz only took the reigns on Monday following the dismissal of Michael Skibbe and he quickly changed the mood at the club by leading them to a last-gasp win after Bordeaux had fought back from 3-1 down to level the tie late on. "We are delighted to see a happy ending to this tough match," he said, after Sabri Sarıoğlu had hit the decisive goal. "Even when the score was 3-3, I had faith we could win. My players fought to the final whistle and the support of the fans was fantastic. Everybody should be aware that this is just the beginning both for me and my team."

Final goal
The victory ended a run of five games without victory for the Turkish outfit, but Korkmaz insisted he alone was not to thank for the turnaround, before he set his sights on the UEFA Cup final in Istanbul in May. "My contribution to the success was small," he said. "I don't have a magic wand. Former coach Skibbe has a share in this success. What I did was psychologically prepare my players for the game and increase their confidence. Galatasaray have a very good squad. A good blend of Turkish and foreign players. We just need patience. If you set a target it should be the final."

Blanc praise
While Korkmaz focused on European success, matchwinner Sabri was happy to have finally ended Cimbom's poor run of form. "We knew that the Bordeaux match was a chance for us to stop our negative run in the league," he said. "The fans, players, technical staff and board were united and we got the win. It is a very positive thing for me to score the winning goal. In the 15 years I've been here, I have never hesitated to do my utmost for the club." Galatasaray's display even received a word of praise from Bordeaux coach Laurent Blanc, who said: "If they repeat that display, they can knock Hamburger SV out and go all the way to the final."

©uefa.com 1998-2009. All rights reserved.

UEFA 2008: Galatasaray File

The UEFA Cup final game will be held in Istanbul Sukru Saracoglu Stadium in May, 2009. Galatasaray wants to appear in the final game and repeat the success it had in 2000. Here are the games the team has played this far.



Galatasaray 1 - Olympiakos 0:



Benfica 0 - Galatasaray 2:





Hertha Berlin 0 - Galatasaray 1:



Galatasaray 0 - Metalist Kharkiv: 1



Bordeaux 0 - Galatasaray: 0



Galatasaray 4 - Bordeaux 3:

UEFA Cup Galatasaray 4-3 Bordeaux Mac Ozeti (26.02.2009) HQ
Uploaded by felekman

Hamburg 1 - Galatasaray 1:

Michael Skibbe Fired

Galatasaray's infamous German manager Michael Skibbe's contract has been terminated by the club's administrative board, the club's president Adnan Polat announced on Monday 23 Feb. 2008. During his 8 month tenure at Galatasaray, Skibbe has drawn criticism from the soccer pundits as well as the spokespeople of the supporters.

This is how UEFA's official web site has announcded the news:

"Galatasaray AŞ have dismissed German coach Michael Skibbe in the wake of Sunday's 5-2 defeat by Kocaelispor, with Bülent Korkmaz being named as his replacement in time for Thursday's UEFA Cup decider against FC Girondins de Bordeaux.

One-club man
The 40-year-old Korkmaz has returned to the club he served as a defender from 1984 to 2005 on an 18-month contract, having spent the last few seasons coaching Kayseri Erciyesspor, Bursaspor and Gençlerbirliği SK. Capped 102 times for Turkey, Korkmaz spent his entire playing career with Galatasaray, winning eight league titles and six Turkish Cups as well as the 2000 UEFA Cup and UEFA Super Cup. His first task will be to win the Round of 32 tie against Bordeaux, with the score 0-0 going into the second leg in Istanbul.

Shock defeat
Defeat by second-bottom Kocaelispor left Galatasaray fifth in the Turkish table, eight points adrift of leaders Sivasspor, with their grip on the title they reclaimed from Fenerbahçe SK in 2007/08 seemingly slipping. Former BV Borussia Dortmund and Bayer 04 Leverkusen coach Skibbe took over at Galatasaray in June following the resignation of countryman Karl-Heinz Feldkamp.

'Setbacks'
The 43-year-old Skibbe said: "We had too many setbacks during the course of the season such as a succession of injuries and some bad results. The financial situation of the club was not comfortable enough to overcome that. I have to admit that the displays of my team against Antalyaspor [AŞ] and Kocaelispor were disappointing for me. Galatasaray were an important point in my career and I would have liked to see that adventure finish with a happy ending. We couldn't establish a solid defensive formation and that prevented us reaching the point that we desired. For me, the key to success is a good defensive organisation rather than in attack."

http://www.uefa.com/competitions/uefacup/news/kind=1/newsid=803144.html

This is the match the sealed the decision on Skibbe.

Galatasaray

Galatasaray vs. Arsenal

2000 UEFA Cup Final Match:


Galatasaray Arsenal Uefa Finali from ali on Vimeo.