Gazişehir Gaziantep vs Kocaelispor Match Recap - Jan 13, 2026

Gazişehir Gaziantep Snatches Late Victory Over Kocaelispor in Türkiye Kupası Clash

Lungoyi's late strike secured a crucial win for Gazişehir Gaziantep, marking a significant turnaround after a string of disappointing performances. This victory comes on the heels of a dismal run that saw them lose four out of five matches, including a staggering 5-1 defeat to Başakşehir. The win not only boosts their morale but also provides a much-needed confidence boost as they navigate the group stage of the Türkiye Kupası.

Kocaelispor entered this match with a mixed bag of results, having recently secured a solid 3-1 victory against Erzurum BB. However, their form has been inconsistent, highlighted by a loss to Kasımpaşa in their last friendly. Despite showing promise in their previous cup match, they struggled to maintain that momentum against Gaziantep, ultimately falling short when it mattered most.

The match was marked by early drama as Sanuc received a red card for Gazişehir Gaziantep just 12 minutes in, putting them at a numerical disadvantage. This early setback could have derailed their efforts, but instead, it galvanized the team. They managed to hold their ground defensively, showcasing resilience and determination that had been lacking in previous outings.

Statistically, Gazişehir Gaziantep's performance was a stark contrast to their recent form. They recorded 58% possession and maintained a pass accuracy of 86%, indicating a more cohesive unit than seen in prior matches. The team's ability to create chances improved significantly, with an expected goals (xG) tally that reflected their attacking intent. This newfound efficiency culminated in Lungoyi's decisive goal in the 87th minute, sealing the match and providing a glimmer of hope for the struggling side.

Kocaelispor's performance was characterized by missed opportunities and defensive lapses. Despite having moments of control, they failed to capitalize on their chances, reflecting a troubling trend from their recent matches. Their inability to convert possession into meaningful threats was evident, as they struggled to break down a determined Gaziantep defense. The late red card for Keita compounded their woes, leaving them with ten men and little time to mount a comeback.

Recent performances from key players played a pivotal role in this match. For Gazişehir Gaziantep, Lungoyi emerged as the hero, continuing his impressive form after scoring in the previous friendly against Arges Pitesti. His late goal not only secured the win but also highlighted his growing importance to the team's attacking strategy. Meanwhile, Kocaelispor's Churlinov, who had been instrumental in their recent successes, was unable to find his rhythm, further emphasizing the team's struggles.

This result places Gazişehir Gaziantep in a better position within the group stage, offering them a chance to build on this momentum as they prepare for their next match against Keçiörengücü. Conversely, Kocaelispor must regroup quickly ahead of their upcoming clash with Beşiktaş, where they will need to address their inconsistencies if they hope to remain competitive in the tournament.

The emotional weight of this victory for Gazişehir Gaziantep cannot be understated. After weeks of frustration and underperformance, this match could serve as a turning point for the team. The challenge now lies in maintaining this level of performance and translating it into future successes. For Kocaelispor, the road ahead is fraught with challenges; they must find ways to regain their form and capitalize on their attacking potential if they wish to advance in the Türkiye Kupası.

In summary, Gazişehir Gaziantep's late victory over Kocaelispor not only highlights the unpredictable nature of football but also serves as a reminder that resilience can lead to redemption. As both teams look ahead, the stakes remain high, and every match will be crucial in determining their fates in this competitive tournament.