Iskenderunspor’s fairy-tale run within the Turkish Cup continues, because the TFF 2. Lig facet storms into the quarterfinals, defying expectations and lifting the spirits of a metropolis nonetheless recovering from the 2023 Feb. 6 devastating twin earthquakes.
The membership’s cup journey started with a dominant 4-1 victory over Tire 2021 within the third spherical.
Then got here a shocking 1-0 upset in opposition to Süper Lig’s Hatayspor, securing a historic place within the group stage.
Facing stiff competitors in Group A, Iskenderunspor held 1. Lig facet Ankaragücü to a 1-1 draw away and battled Trabzonspor to an exhilarating 2-2 stalemate at dwelling.
Their defining second got here with a resilient 2-1 highway win over Fatih Karagümrük.
Finishing second behind Trabzonspor with an unbeaten document (5 factors), they clinched a well-earned quarterfinal berth.
The membership’s sudden success has ignited a ardour in İskenderun, a neighborhood nonetheless therapeutic from the Feb. 6, 2023 earthquakes.
As the workforce prepares for its subsequent problem, anticipation grows for the quarterfinal draw, set to happen at Riva Hasan Doğan National Teams Camp.
Iskenderunspor President Hakan Bolat acknowledged the magnitude of the achievement. “Reaching the quarterfinals undefeated is an incredible feat. Now, we could face Beşiktaş, Fenerbahçe, or Konyaspor. It’s a tough road ahead, but we believe in our team’s resilience,” he mentioned.
The membership’s success has drawn consideration, with switch curiosity in a number of key gamers.
Head coach Metin Akpunar praised his squad’s dedication. “These boys have written their names in İskenderun’s football history. Advancing undefeated in a group with Trabzonspor is extraordinary.”
Defender Mehmet Manış is raring for a marquee matchup. “I hope we draw Beşiktaş or Fenerbahçe. We want to test ourselves against the best.” Midfielder Kadir Turhan echoed the workforce’s confidence. “We’ve made headlines. Now, we aim to bring home another historic result.”
Source: www.dailysabah.com