Galatasaray return to Rams Park with a point to prove after a difficult run of results. Their European momentum stalled recently when they were beaten 1–0 at home by Union Saint-Gilloise, a defeat that ended their long unbeaten streak in front of their supporters since august, Softfootball reports.
Most recently domestically, they also dropped points in the Istanbul derby, drawing 1–1 with Fenerbahçe after Jhon Duran struck late to deny them victory.
With pressure building, this fixture offers the Lions a perfect chance to steady things again. Playing at home, backed by one of the most demanding fan bases in Türkiye, Galatasaray know they must respond strongly and re-establish themselves as title contenders. A more clinical attacking display will be expected, especially after their recent struggles in breaking teams down.
Samsunspor travel to Istanbul fully aware of the magnitude of the challenge. Galatasaray rarely lose at Rams Park, and the history of this fixture heavily favours the hosts. But the visitors have shown resilience in previous outings this season, and they will approach this match with a clear plan: stay compact, frustrate the home side, and look for counter-attacking opportunities.
If Samsunspor can hold firm early on and limit Galatasaray’s rhythm, an upset cannot be completely ruled out, especially given the hosts’ recent inconsistency. A positive result here would be a massive confidence boost as they continue their fight for a top four finish in the league.
Samsunspor sit fifth with 25 points, just one off fourth place but defeat here could see them slip to sixth by the end of the round.
Team News
Galatasaray are expected to manage their squad carefully after the demanding schedule of domestic and European fixtures.Galatasaray remain without Ismail Jakobs, who missed the derby with an injury, while Wilfried Singo is also out again due to a muscle problem.
Eren Elmali and Metehan Baltaci continue to serve bans related to betting violations, and Osimhen, with three goals in 10 league matches, will hope to make a greater impact following his return from injury.
Ahead of the game, Galatasary via its official X handle shared an exclusive video teasing the upcoming game against Samsunspor. They posted:
Meanwhile, Samsunspor continue to miss long-term absentees Olivier Ntcham, Ebrima Ceesay, Bedirhan Cetin, Tanguy Coulibaly and Afonso Sousa. Lubomir Satka remains sidelined after returning from international duty injured, while Celil Yuksel is suspended as part of the ongoing betting scandal.
Possible Lineups
Galatasaray possible starting lineup:
Cakir; Sanchez, Bardakci, Lemina, Karatas; Torreira, Sara; Sane, Gundogan, Yilmaz; Osimhen
Samsunspor possible starting lineup:
Kocuk; Yavru, Borevkovic, Van Drongelen, Tomasson; Makoumbou; Musaba, Aydin, Holse, Kilinic; Ndiaye
Samsunspor via its official X handle shared a timely update with its fans showing player Tanguy returning to full training as the team continues to prepare for the game against Galatasary. They posted:
SoftFootball Prediction
Galatasaray come into this match under pressure but remain strong favourites due to their home advantage and superior squad depth. Samsunspor will make this as difficult as possible, but the Lions are widely expected to respond after their recent setbacks.
Prediction: Galatasaray 2–0 Samsunspor
