VAR Drama and Brniç's Impact: Başakşehir's Clinical Second-Half Masterclass

Average Futmetrix Score: 37/100. VAR's early intervention and substitute Ivan Brniç's decisive impact turned a tense contest into a commanding away victory, leaving Fatih Karagümrük pointless on opening day.

VAR's Controversial Intervention

In the 27th minute, Başakşehir appeared to break the deadlock through Eldor Shomurodov, only for VAR to wipe the goal from the record. This moment of intensity proved pivotal—rather than deflating the visitors, it seemed to sharpen their focus. Karagümrük, meanwhile, absorbed the setback but failed to capitalise on the psychological reprieve, managing just two on-target efforts from their six total shots despite dominating possession at 48%.

The Super-Sub Strikes

Brniç's introduction at the hour mark transformed Başakşehir's attacking threat. Five minutes after stepping onto the pitch, the substitute latched onto Shomurodov's assist to fire home the breakthrough goal in the 65th minute. The balance shifted decisively. Four minutes later, the narrative turned farcical when A. Çınar diverted the ball into his own net, handing Başakşehir a comfortable 2-0 scoreline that barely reflected the underlying contest. Karagümrük's xG of 0.39 versus Başakşehir's waif-like 0.11 told a story of missed opportunities against clinical finishing.

Control Without Reward

Karagümrük's 77% pass accuracy and 381 completed passes proved hollow. They dictated large portions of the match yet lacked the precision to trouble the Başakşehir goalkeeper meaningfully. The visitors, by contrast, required only four shots to secure all three points—a masterclass in efficiency. For Karagümrük, this season-opening loss represents a missed opportunity to build momentum; for Başakşehir, it's a statement of intent despite VAR's early denial.