Galatasaray Secure Vital Away Victory Against Çaykur Rizespor
London, 8 February 2026 – Galatasaray maintained their position at the summit of the Turkish Süper Lig today with a hard-fought victory over Çaykur Rizespor at the Çaykur Didi Stadyumu. The visitors, entering the match as league leaders, faced a resilient Rizespor side currently positioned in the mid-table. However, the clinical nature of the Istanbul giants proved the difference in this Matchday 21 fixture.
Match Report: Osimhen Strikes Again
The contest began with high intensity as the hosts looked to disrupt Galatasaray’s rhythm. Despite Rizespor’s recent form, which included a surprise draw against Istanbul Basaksehir, they struggled to contain the visitors’ attacking threats. Victor Osimhen continued his remarkable scoring run, finding the net to give Galatasaray the lead. This goal takes Osimhen’s season tally to 14 in the league, further cementing his status as the division’s most clinical finisher.
Rizespor, currently sitting 12th in the table, attempted to fight back in front of their home crowd, but the defensive organisation of the league leaders held firm. The result extends Galatasaray’s dominant head-to-head record against the Rize-based club, marking their eighth win in the last ten meetings between the two sides.
Key Match Facts and Statistics
The following table outlines the essential data and historical context surrounding this Süper Lig encounter.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Competition | Turkish Süper Lig (Matchday 21) |
| Venue | Çaykur Didi Stadyumu, Rize |
| Date | 8 February 2026 |
| League Positions | Galatasaray (1st), Çaykur Rizespor (12th) |
| Key Performer | Victor Osimhen (14 League Goals) |
| Historical Context | Galatasaray holds 24 Süper Lig titles (League Record) |
| Loan Watch | Halil Dervişoğlu (On loan at Rizespor from Galatasaray) |
Historical Context and Personnel
The rivalry between these two clubs has seen significant moments in recent years. Notably, Galatasaray’s veteran goalkeeper Fernando Muslera suffered a serious injury at this same venue in June 2020. In terms of squad crossover, forward Halil Dervişoğlu is currently representing Çaykur Rizespor on a loan agreement from Galatasaray, though he was ineligible to influence the tide against his parent club today.
Galatasaray’s victory today keeps them on pace for what could be their 25th league title, as they continue to lead the pack ahead of rivals Fenerbahçe and Beşiktaş in the 67th season of the Turkish top flight.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the score in the previous meeting this season?
Galatasaray won the reverse fixture 3-1 in August 2025. They also secured a 2-1 victory at the Çaykur Didi Stadyumu in February of last year.
How many clubs have won the Turkish Süper Lig?
Only six clubs have won the title since the league’s inception: Galatasaray, Fenerbahçe, Beşiktaş, Trabzonspor, Bursaspor, and Istanbul Başakşehir. Galatasaray holds the record with 24 titles.
Who is the current top scorer for Galatasaray?
Victor Osimhen is the leading scorer for the club this season, reaching 14 league goals following his strike against Rizespor today.