Antalyaspor’s preparations for the upcoming Süper Lig season are off to a thunderous start after a commanding 6-1 victory against North Macedonian side Shkupi. The match, held at Corendon Airlines Park Antalya Stadium, was not only a display of offensive firepower but also a testament to the club’s renewed tactical energy under Head Coach Emre Belözoğlu.
The match gave fans and analysts plenty to talk about—from the impressive performances of new signings, to the emergence of 16-year-old Ali Demirbilek, who earned a starting position and made a confident showing.
Young Stars and Tactical Shape Shine in Starting Eleven
Belözoğlu’s starting lineup showcased both experience and youth, combining seasoned players with promising newcomers. The first XI featured Abdullah Yiğiter, Ali Demirbilek, Veysel Sarı, Bahadır Öztürk, Paal, Hasan Yakub İlçin, Kaluzinski, Abdülkadir Ömür, Ramzi Safuri, Sander Van de Streek, and Tomas Cvancara.
Notably, Belözoğlu handed starts to Ali Demirbilek and Hasan Yakub İlçin, signaling a clear message that youth development and integration will be a cornerstone of his management philosophy this season. Demirbilek, just 16 years old, showed poise well beyond his years, and İlçin capped his performance with a well-taken goal in the 79th minute.
A Goal-Filled Evening in Antalya
The match began with tempo and intensity, and it didn’t take long for the home side to establish dominance.
In the 18th minute, Ramzi Safuri opened the scoring with a composed finish following a slick passing move.
Abdülkadir Ömür, one of the club’s high-profile summer signings, marked his presence in the 40th minute with a confident strike from outside the box.
Shortly after halftime, in the 55th minute, Tomas Cvancara scored from the penalty spot, securing his first goal in the red-and-white shirt.
The fourth goal came from Sander Van de Streek in the 75th minute, who calmly slotted the ball past the goalkeeper after a clinical counterattack.
In the 79th minute, Hasan Yakub İlçin scored his first professional goal for the senior team.
Finally, in the 85th minute, Georgi Dzhikiya rounded off the performance with a powerful header, also marking his first goal for Antalyaspor.
The lone goal for Shkupi came during a brief defensive lapse, but it was little more than a consolation in a match thoroughly dominated by the hosts.
New Transfers Make an Immediate Impact
Three of Antalyaspor’s recent acquisitions—Abdülkadir Ömür, Tomas Cvancara, and Georgi Dzhikiya—all found the back of the net, offering a strong sign of things to come. Their seamless integration into the team dynamic has already raised optimism about the club’s potential in the upcoming Süper Lig campaign.
Ömür, known for his technical ability and creative spark, looks set to become a central figure in midfield.
Cvancara, with his physical presence and penalty-taking composure, will be a key target man.
Dzhikiya, a defender with goal-scoring instincts, adds aerial threat to set pieces.
Coach Emre Belözoğlu was visibly pleased with their performances, stating after the match that the team is progressing according to plan and that the new additions are adapting both tactically and socially.
Emre Belözoğlu’s Tactical Vision Coming to Life
Appointed to lead Antalyaspor into a new era, Belözoğlu is implementing a balanced approach that blends structured defense, quick transitions, and youth promotion. His emphasis on positional fluidity and quick ball circulation was on full display during the friendly.
The decision to start young talents and involve them in key phases of play reflects a deeper commitment to long-term development rather than short-term fixes. Belözoğlu’s calm presence on the sidelines and frequent communication with players showcased a hands-on leadership style.
Supporters Encouraged by Signs of Progress
The emphatic win and cohesive team display have lifted spirits among the Antalyaspor faithful. Many fans were especially encouraged by the high work rate and the sense of unity visible across the squad.
This pre-season friendly was not just about the scoreline—it was a declaration that Antalyaspor is building something sustainable. With several more test matches on the horizon, expectations are gradually rising as the team prepares for the official league opener.
What’s Next for the Red and Whites
Antalyaspor’s pre-season calendar continues with more fixtures scheduled in the coming weeks. These matches will provide further chances for the coaching staff to experiment with lineups, test new formations, and give younger players opportunities to earn their place in the rotation.
Fitness levels and tactical execution are improving daily, and the integration of international players with local talent is already showing promise.
If the current trajectory continues, Antalyaspor may very well become one of the surprise packages of the 2025–26 Süper Lig season.
