Even without the services of Ricardo Quaresma (suspended), Besiktas managed to overcome Antalyspor 1-0 tonight at the Inonu Stadium. With the win, Besiktas made it three wins from their last three Turkish Super Lig games.

Portuguese manager Carlos Carvalhal made numerous changes to the side that emerged victorious in Bursa at midweek, with Manuel Fernandes being replaced in midfield by Fabian Ernst and Phillip Holosko playing in Quaresma’s stead. Simao Sabrosa retained his starting position for the Black Eagles.

Indeed Besiktas looked a much different side and struggled for much of the opening exchange. Without the creative influence of Ricardo Quaresma, the hosts looked toothless and were unable to maintain possession in the attacking third for long enough to create chances. Luck was on their side however, when they managed to win a penalty in the 10th minute. Simao stepped up and dispatched the spot kick masterfully, giving Besiktas a vital lead.

The goal stymied the overall level of play, as Besiktas were content to sit on their lead, while Antalyaspor toiled away in pursuit of an equaliser with little effect.


The second half began similarly, with Besiktas absorbing pressure and launching the occasional counterattack. Phillip Holosko did escape down the left in the 57th minute, but  Ismail Koybasi mishit his cutback and the chance went begging. Antalyspor finally began to grow into the game and created several half chances that worried Carvalhal enough to introduce Fernandes in the 68th minute.

Antalyspor continued to look dangerous and nearly scored when captain Necati Ates managed to divert Musa Aydin’s cross goalward. It took a brilliant save from keeper Cenk Gonen to maintain Besiktas’ advantage.

Besiktas countered in the 79th minute with Simao and his pass picked out an unmarked Edu at the edge of the penalty area, who blasted over wastefully. Fernandes skied over a late chance, but it would finish 1-0, with the Black Eagles finally beginning to show some defensive solidarity.

Besiktas will travel to Stoke on Thursday to play the Potters in a keenly anticipated Europa League clash.

by Nathan Motz

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