Galatasaray added their 14th consecutive victory in the Super League, a record in Turkish football. Juan Mata started the game, but a physical problem provoked his change. Zaniolo scored the winning goal against Kasımpaşa.
After a few weeks marked by the earthquake and its tragic consequences, Galatasaray SK returned to play an official match. They had not done so since the 5th of February (2-1 against Trabzonspor), and the impeccable record of Okan’s team continued against Kasımpaşa (1-0). The Italian Zaniolo, a recent signing, scored the winner in the 57th minute. A victory with which Galatasaray enters the history books.
Juan Mata’s team achieved their 14th consecutive victory in the Super League, something never before achieved in the Turkish league. The streak, including the Cup games, is even more impressive (17 wins).
Mata’s physical problem
The game, corresponding to the game week 25 of the Super League, had the presence of Mata in the starting XI. The Spanish footballer played in a central position, ahead of the two midfielders (Torreira and Oliveira) and behind the striker Icardi. The game, dominated by Galatasaray, seemed favourable for Juan’s characteristics. Still, a minor injury caused him to request the change with just 22 minutes gone. He left the field with an ovation from the fans, and Milot Rashica replaced him.
More than 45,000 spectators attended the match at the NEF Stadium in Istanbul. Galatasaray’s next game will be on Friday, the 17th of March when they will visit Konyaspor.
