Storm Strikes Late: Antalya Leaves Gencler Staring at Relegation

Skip It Futmetrix Score: 30/100. Two defeats in two matches has already cast Genclerbirligi into a relegation battle, while Antalyaspor's flawless start positions them as genuine contenders in the Süper Lig's early power struggle.

The Substitute's Decisive Touch

For 80 minutes, Genclerbirligi pressed, probed, and threatened. Then came the sucker punch. In the 81st minute, Antalyaspor's B. Balci—introduced at the 56-minute mark—found N. Storm in the box. Storm's finish was clinical, deflecting past the goalkeeper to seal a 1-0 triumph. The goal encapsulated Antalya's intensity: clinical, composed, ruthless in the final act.

Dominance Without Dividends

Gencler dominated the balance of play. Fourteen shots (2 on target), eight corners, 46% possession—the script suggested a different outcome. Yet xG told a harsher truth: 1.12 to Antalya's 0.64. For all their territorial advantage, Gencler lacked the sniper's edge. Michał Nalepa led the charge (7.5 rating) but found Antalya's rearguard—anchored by the imperious Veysel Sarı (7.9 rating)—too organised to breach.

The Upset Factor That Wasn't

This wasn't an upset. Antalya, unbeaten with 6 points from two matches, were the favourites. Gencler, by contrast, arrived winless, pointless, and already bleeding confidence. The stakes are enormous: Gencler sit 13th with 0 points, a goal difference of -2, and the spectre of a season spiralling into crisis. Antalya, meanwhile, perch 4th with a perfect record and genuine title aspirations.

Balci's Impact: The Turning Point

Balci's introduction shifted the balance. His assist proved the difference between a draw and defeat. This is the hallmark of a team with depth and tactical acumen—Antalya didn't just win; they suffocated Gencler's late momentum with a clinical substitute's contribution.