VAR Steals Başakşehir's Golden Moment in Dramatic Derby Draw
Average Futmetrix Score: 42/100. Technology and human error combined to deny Başakşehir victory in a match that perfectly captured the intensity and volatility of Turkish football's title race.
Shomurodov's Early Advantage
Başakşehir struck first when Eldor Shomurodov rose above the Alanyaspor defence in the 29th minute to head home a pinpoint cross from Miguel Crespo. The Istanbul side controlled the opening period with intensity, dominating possession at 53% and forcing their visitors into a reactive shape. Shomurodov's finish gave Başakşehir the early stakes advantage they desperately needed.
Ogundu's Leveller and the VAR Bombshell
The balance shifted violently in the second half. Alanyaspor's Uchenna Ogundu restored parity in the 51st minute with a composed finish that suggested a potential away victory. But three minutes later, Shomurodov thought he'd doubled his tally—only for VAR to intervene. The goal was cancelled, denying Başakşehir what would have been a decisive advantage. The intervention froze the match at 1-1, a bitter pill for the home side chasing points in a season where every result carries critical weight.
Shots Galore, Heroics in Goal
Both sides unleashed a barrage of 26 combined shots, with 11 finding the target. Başakşehir's goalkeeper made 5 saves whilst Alanyaspor's custodian pulled off 4 crucial stops. From set-pieces, Başakşehir earned 11 corners, creating constant pressure through aerial bombardment. Yet Alanyaspor's defensive discipline—80% pass accuracy despite 47% possession—held firm when it mattered most. For Başakşehir (11th place, 7 points), this was a missed opportunity to climb the table. For Alanyaspor (9th, 9 points), a point away felt like a victory snatched from the jaws of defeat.
Key Questions
How did VAR change this match?
Shomurodov's 53rd-minute goal cancellation robbed Başakşehir of a 2-1 lead. Without VAR's intervention, the home side would likely have secured all three points.
Why couldn't Başakşehir convert their dominance?
Despite 53% possession and 11 corners, VAR's cancellation of Shomurodov's second goal and Ogundu's clinical finish left Başakşehir empty-handed.
Who performed better overall?
Başakşehir dominated territorially, but Alanyaspor's clinical finishing and defensive resilience on 47% possession proved more decisive in the final reckoning.
Why is this match rated 42/100?
Our Futmetrix algorithm analyzed intensity, balance, and stakes. The final score of 42/100 places this match in the "Average" category.
