Rizespor and Istanbul Başakşehir Play to a Stalemate as Hunt for Points Continues
In a match that promised much but delivered little, Çaykur Rizespor and Istanbul Başakşehir played out a goalless draw at the Çaykur Didi Stadyumu on Sunday. Both teams were desperate for points as they languish near the bottom of the Süper Lig table, but despite their best efforts, neither could find the back of the net.
As a writer who boldly predicted a narrow victory for Rizespor-a 2-1 win, no less-I had envisioned a lively encounter filled with attacking flair. However, the reality was far less glamorous. What unfolded was a battle of attrition, as both teams struggled to carve out clear goal-scoring opportunities. Rizespor remained in 12th place with eight points after eight matches, while Başakşehir found themselves in an even more precarious position, sitting in 16th with just six points.
Rizespor, coming off a disappointing loss to Trabzonspor, sought to build on their recent high of a 5-2 victory against Antalyaspor just a few weeks prior. However, they could not replicate that form on home soil. Their attacking trio, led by the in-form Jesurun Rak-Sakyi, was stifled effectively by a Başakşehir defense that had been criticized for its recent lapses. Despite moments of individual brilliance, the final ball often eluded them.
Istanbul Başakşehir entered the match seeking redemption after a string of disappointing outings, including a recent loss to Galatasaray. With their midfield battle against Rizespor proving pivotal at times, they had opportunities to break the deadlock, particularly through Eldor Shomurodov, who had shown glimpses of promise in previous matches. Yet, like Rizespor, they stumbled at the final hurdle, lacking the clinical edge that could have turned their possession into goals.
Neither team saw a red card, which perhaps reflects the overall cautious nature of the match. With tensions high and stakes growing higher still, it seemed both sides were more focused on not losing rather than on seizing the moment to claim three crucial points.
This draw did little to alleviate the pressure on either side as the season inches toward its first quarter. For Rizespor, the pursuit of consistency remains paramount; they have shown flashes of offensive talent, but the inability to convert chances continues to plague them. Meanwhile, Başakşehir must seek immediate improvement if they are to escape the relegation zone and regain the form that once made them a formidable force in Turkish football.
Looking forward, both teams face the daunting task of finding their rhythm in an unforgiving league. With the Süper Lig becoming increasingly competitive, each match will be crucial for survival and future aspirations. For Rizespor and Başakşehir, the countdown begins anew as they seek to reclaim their place in the upper echelons of Turkish football.