Antalyaspor vs Genclerbirligi Match Recap - Jan 14, 2026

Genclerbirligi's Late Surge Stuns Antalyaspor in Türkiye Kupası Clash

Genclerbirligi's late goal from Zuzek in the 89th minute sealed a hard-fought victory against Antalyaspor, marking a significant moment in their Türkiye Kupası campaign. This win not only boosts Genclerbirligi's confidence but also highlights Antalyaspor's ongoing struggles, as they remain winless in their last five matches.

Antalyaspor's recent form has been dismal, with four consecutive losses leading into this match. Their inability to score more than one goal in those five games underscores a severe offensive crisis. Despite controlling possession against Kocaelispor and Galatasaray, they failed to convert opportunities into goals, averaging just 0.2 goals per match during this stretch. The team's xG figures reflect this disconnect; they have consistently out-possessed opponents yet struggled to translate that into meaningful chances.

Genclerbirligi, on the other hand, has been riding a wave of momentum, highlighted by their thrilling 4-3 victory over Trabzonspor just weeks prior. This match showcased their attacking prowess, with players like Koita and Ulgun stepping up to deliver crucial performances. The team's recent form has been characterized by resilience and an ability to score under pressure, contrasting sharply with Antalyaspor's current plight.

The tactical battle played out as expected, with Genclerbirligi employing a disciplined approach that allowed them to absorb pressure while looking for counter-attacking opportunities. The early red card for Diyadin could have derailed their plans, but instead, it galvanized the squad. They adapted well, maintaining their shape and discipline, which ultimately paid off when they found the late winner.

Zuzek's goal epitomizes Genclerbirligi's recent trend of finding late breakthroughs. His performance today adds to a growing narrative of clutch contributions from key players, reinforcing the idea that this team thrives under pressure. The late-game heroics not only secured three points but also solidified their position in the group stage, setting them up for future success.

Antalyaspor's defensive frailties were once again exposed, particularly in the closing stages of the match. Their inability to maintain concentration and composure when it mattered most has become a recurring theme. The lack of a reliable goal scorer has compounded their issues; van de Streek, despite showing flashes of potential, has not been able to consistently find the net. This inconsistency leaves Antalyaspor vulnerable as they head into their next fixtures.

Looking ahead, Antalyaspor faces a critical matchup against Iğdır Belediyespor, where they must find a way to break their scoring drought. The pressure is mounting on the coaching staff and players alike to turn around their fortunes before it's too late. Meanwhile, Genclerbirligi will look to build on this momentum against Eyüpspor, aiming to solidify their position in the knockout stages of the tournament.

This match serves as a stark reminder of the contrasting trajectories of these two teams. Genclerbirligi's resilience and ability to capitalize on opportunities stand in stark contrast to Antalyaspor's ongoing struggles. As the season progresses, both teams will need to address their respective challenges if they hope to achieve their goals in the Türkiye Kupası and beyond.