Preview: Atmosphere at Gaziantep Stadyumu promises a lively duel
Gaziantep F.K. returns to home turf at the Gaziantep Stadyumu on 25 January with momentum that feels fragile but dangerous. Sitting eighth in the Super Lig table after 18 games, Gaziantep have been a mixed bag this season — capable of grinding out results and equally prone to lapses that have left their goals-against column worrying. The hosts come off a credible 1-1 draw at home to Galatasaray, a performance led by N. Sangaré who registered the match’s best individual rating. That sort of resilience will matter against a Konyaspor side rooted lower in the standings but by no means bereft of attacking intent.
Konyaspor arrive in Gaziantep after a 1-1 draw with Eyüpspor and a sequence that includes comfortable wins and frustrating stalemates. Their away record and inconsistent defense have them down in 13th, but recent results show a team that can score and has the tactical appetite to open matches up. Deniz Türüç was the standout in Konyaspor’s latest draw, and his influence in transitional moments will be a key subplot.
Form, stats and the likely script
Numbers paint a narrative of an open game. Gaziantep have produced over 2.5 goals in two-thirds of their matches this season, while Konyaspor’s fixtures have also tilted towards more than two goals in over half of their games. Both teams concede too often to expect a chess match: Gaziantep have just four clean sheets from 18, and Konyaspor only two. Their attacking numbers back this up — Konyaspor lead in dangerous attacks and overall attacks per match, suggesting they will probe and press high, especially when trying to overturn a deficit away from home.
Historically, the teams have traded results; earlier in the campaign Konyaspor recorded a 3-0 victory over Gaziantep, which adds an element of revenge for the hosts. The bookmakers give the home side the edge for this fixture, reflecting both the Gaziantep home standing and the variance in Konyaspor’s away performances.
What to expect: tempo, goals and tactical edges
Expect a lively first half: both sides have shown a tendency to score early and to leave spaces as they chase results. With Gaziantep eager to solidify a top-half push and Konyaspor hunting points to climb clear of the drop zone, the game is likely to be played at a brisk pace with several transitions and goalmouth moments. The referee Kadir Sağlam’s presence adds a consistent whistle profile — discipline could shape the late stages of the match.
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Betting suggestion Back the goals: Over 2.5 goals. The combination of Gaziantep’s strong over-2.5 rate, Konyaspor’s attacking activity and the low clean-sheet numbers on both sides point toward multiple scoring moments. Consider a cautious stake and apply standard bankroll management principles when placing the wager.
