Galatasaray vs Eyüpspor: Title Race Intensifies at Rams Park

Turkish Super Lig leaders Galatasaray are set to host struggling Eyüpspor at the iconic Rams Park on Friday evening, in a fixture that could significantly shape the title race and the relegation battle. With the league title race tightening, Galatasaray will be looking to secure all three points to maintain their grip at the summit of the standings.

Galatasaray's Title Charge Continues

Okan Buruk's Galatasaray are once again locked in a fierce two-horse race for the Super Lig title, this time with city rivals Fenerbahce. However, a recent resurgence from Trabzonspor adds another layer of intrigue to the competition. Last time out, Galatasaray secured a dominant 3-0 victory over Rizespor, a result that kept them three points clear at the top. This win was crucial as they aim to secure their fourth consecutive league title, a feat not achieved by the club in 26 years.

With an eye on their upcoming Champions League playoff tie against Juventus, the Lions have been in formidable domestic form, winning six of their last seven league outings since their Super Cup final defeat to Fenerbahce earlier this year. Their home record at Rams Park this season has been nothing short of imperious, remaining undefeated in all 11 league fixtures (W8, D3). This formidable home advantage will undoubtedly be a significant factor against Eyüpspor.

Galatasaray has developed a knack for starting matches strongly, having broken the deadlock in four of their last five encounters. This aggressive approach is something they will aim to replicate against an Eyüpspor side that has frequently conceded the opening goal, having done so in eight of their last nine matches.

Eyüpspor's Fight for Survival

Eyüpspor, who surprised many by finishing sixth in their debut top-flight campaign two seasons ago after winning the TFF First League in 2023-24, are facing a starkly different reality this term. Their impressive performance then saw them narrowly miss out on European qualification by just one point, signalling their potential to compete at the highest level.

However, Atilla Gerin's men have experienced a significant fall from grace. A dismal start to the season, with only two wins from their opening 13 matches (D3, L8), set the tone for a challenging campaign, and Eyüpspor have struggled to reverse their fortunes. While they managed a five-game unbeaten run at the beginning of 2026, a subsequent 2-1 defeat against Istanbul Basaksehir on Sunday has left them in 15th place in the standings. They now sit just two points clear of the relegation zone, making their trip to the capital all the more critical.

The Golden Horns have found life on the road difficult this season. Despite losing six of their first seven away league games, they have shown some resilience in recent outings, collecting seven points from their last 12 available on their travels. This suggests they are not a team to be underestimated, even against the league's top sides.

Team News and Predicted Lineups

Galatasaray Team News

Galatasaray will be without Metahan Baltaci, who continues to serve a lengthy nine-month ban due to his involvement in a betting scandal. Leroy Sane and Arda Unyay remain sidelined with injuries. However, there is a boost for the Lions with the return of Mario Lemina from a one-game suspension. Victor Osimhen has been in fine scoring form, netting in five consecutive league appearances, though he trails leading scorers Paul Onuachu and Eldor Shomurodov in the Golden Boot race.

Luccas Claro has been out of action since October due to an ankle problem sustained against Trabzonspor. Taras Stepanenko also continues his spell on the sidelines, missing his sixth consecutive game.

Eyüpspor Team News

Eyüpspor's key player to watch is undoubtedly Umut Bozok, who has been in prolific form, netting four goals in his last five appearances for the visitors. His attacking prowess will be crucial if Eyüpspor are to cause an upset.

Predicted Lineups

Galatasaray possible starting lineup: Cakir; Elmali, Bardakci, Sanchez, Sallai; Lemina, Torreira; Akgun, Sara, Lang; Osimhen

Eyüpspor possible starting lineup: Yilmaz; Ulvan, Onguene, Ozyurt, Meras; Taskin; Pintor, Akbaba, Gezek, Altunbas; Bozok

Match Prediction

Given Galatasaray's overwhelming firepower, their dominant home record, and Eyüpspor's struggles, particularly away from home, the Turkish champions are heavily favoured to secure a comfortable victory. The Lions have consistently demonstrated their ability to break down opposition defences and maintain control of matches. While Eyüpspor have shown flashes of resilience on their travels, it is unlikely to be enough to derail Galatasaray's title ambitions.

We predict a convincing win for Galatasaray, likely with multiple goals. Eyüpspor will undoubtedly fight for every ball as they battle for survival, but the quality and experience of the league leaders should prevail.

Our Prediction: Galatasaray 3-1 Eyüpspor