Beşiktaş Earns Vital Away Goal in Turkish Cup Semifinal Draw Against Ankaragücü

Beşiktaş secured a valuable away goal advantage in their Turkish Cup semifinal first leg match against Ankaragücü on Sunday, playing out a 0-0 draw at the Eryaman Stadium in Ankara. The result puts Beşiktaş in a strong position heading into the decisive second leg at their home ground, the Vodafone Park in Istanbul.

The match was a closely contested affair, with both teams creating chances but unable to find the breakthrough. Beşiktaş had the better opportunities, particularly in the second half, but were denied by some determined defending from the hosts.

Ankaragücü suffered a blow midway through the match when their influential midfielder Alexandru Maxim Morutan was forced off with an injury. The extent of the injury is not yet known, but it will be a concern for Ankaragücü ahead of the second leg.

Why this matters: The Turkish Cup represents a significant opportunity for both Beşiktaş and Ankaragücü to secure a trophy this season. With the away goal advantage, Beşiktaş are now favorites to reach the final, but Ankaragücü will still believe they can turn the tie around in Istanbul.

Speaking after the match, Beşiktaş manager Şenol Güneş expressed satisfaction with the result. "It was a tough game, as we expected," he said. "Ankaragücü defended well and made it difficult for us. But we got the away goal, and that could be vital. We'll look to finish the job in the second leg at our home."

The second leg of the semifinal will take place at the Vodafone Park in Istanbul on April 27, 2024. The winner of the tie will face either Galatasaray or Fenerbahçe in the Turkish Cup final.

Key Takeaways

• Beşiktaş drew 0-0 with Ankaragücü in the Turkish Cup semifinal first leg.
• Beşiktaş secured an away goal advantage, putting them in a strong position.
• Ankaragücü lost influential midfielder Morutan to injury during the match.
• The Turkish Cup represents a chance for both teams to win a trophy.
• The second leg will be played on April 27, 2024, in Istanbul.