Besiktas edges past Sipay Bodrum FK in controversial 2-1 Super Lig clash

Besiktas claimed a much-needed 2-1 victory over Sipay Bodrum FK in the 19th round of the Trendyol Super Lig at Tupras Stadium, breaking a 35-day winless streak. However, the match was overshadowed by contentious refereeing decisions and criticism from Sipay Bodrum FK’s head coach, Volkan Demirel.

The home side’s goals came in the first half, with Cher Ndour scoring his debut goal for Besiktas in the 32nd minute and Ciro Immobile netting his 10th league goal eight minutes later. George Puscas provided a late consolation goal for the visitors during stoppage time.

Demirel criticizes officiating and squad limitations

Following the defeat, Sipay Bodrum FK coach Volkan Demirel expressed frustration at both the officiating and his team’s inability to convert opportunities into goals.

“We entered the penalty area 42 times and had an expected goals tally above 2, yet we couldn’t capitalize due to a lack of skill,” Demirel stated during the post-match press conference.

He also condemned the referee’s decision not to award a penalty for an incident involving Taylan Antalyali after a VAR review, saying, “This is the first time I’ve seen open play stopped for a VAR check, only for a penalty to not be given. I don’t understand the rationale behind this, but I hope an explanation is provided.”

Demirel acknowledged his squad’s challenges in adapting to the Super Lig but remained optimistic about the club’s future. “I knew the limitations of this team when I accepted the job. We’ll work hard to stay in the league this season, and with the right transfers, aim higher next year.”

Besiktas finds relief after winless streak

Besiktas, under the guidance of technical director Halim Okta, ended a frustrating period of three winless matches in the league. Speaking after the game, Okta said, “This victory was much needed.

Our first-half performance reflected our tactical goals, but we made too many passing errors in the second half. Still, this win gives us the morale boost to address our shortcomings.”

Despite the win, Besiktas continues to face challenges in building consistency, having won only two of their last ten league matches.

Injury woes and sparse attendance

Besiktas midfielder Gedson Fernandes left the match in the 25th minute following a head injury. Moatasem Al Musrati replaced him, contributing to an already shaky performance in the second half.

Adding to Besiktas’s struggles, fan attendance at Tupras Stadium remained sparse, reflecting discontent over the team’s recent results.

VAR decisions stir debate

The match saw further controversy when referee Mehmet Turkmen chose not to award a penalty to Sipay Bodrum FK after reviewing a potential foul on Taylan Antalyali in the 62nd minute.

The incident added to broader concerns about officiating in the league, which Demirel touched on when discussing the temporary use of foreign VAR referees. “Changing the referees alone won’t fix Turkish football,” he remarked.

Besiktas v. Bodrum standout performances

While Ndour’s first goal in a Besiktas shirt was a milestone, Immobile’s clinical finishing continued to shine, with the Italian forward now tallying 10 goals in 15 league appearances.

With this victory, Besiktas moves to 30 points, while Sipay Bodrum FK remains at 15, teetering near the relegation zone.