Fenerbahçe SK manager İsmail Kartal has finalized his tactical plan for the upcoming derby against Beşiktaş. According to a report by Hürriyet Spor, Kartal and his technical team began preparations immediately after the Samsunspor match, focusing on a specific attacking strategy.
The team currently sits 4th in the Süper Lig with 6 points from 3 games, having scored 7 goals and conceded 4. They are just one point behind leaders Galatasaray and come into the derby on an unbeaten run of 5 matches, their latest result a 4-2 victory over Konyaspor on August 22nd. However, the squad is dealing with several injuries, with Jayden Oosterwolde, Kerem Aktürkoğlu, Marco Asensio, Talisca, and Çağlar Söyüncü currently sidelined.
What is the tactical plan for the derby?
İsmail Kartal's derby blueprint centers on attacking primarily down the left flank. The experienced manager stated, "We will mainly use the left wing in attack during the derby." This approach is designed to exploit the space left by Beşiktaş's right-back Murillo, who is known for pushing forward. Kartal believes this area presents a key opportunity for Fenerbahçe's offensive organization.
Central to this plan is the manager's trust in winger Mason Greenwood to finish attacks. Greenwood's presence in the penalty area is expected to create scoring opportunities, especially by drawing defensive attention away from striker Vedat Muriqi. Muriqi's aerial threat could force the Beşiktaş defense to focus on him, thereby opening spaces for Greenwood. This dual threat is seen as important for breaking down the rival's defense.
How will the defense be organized?
Defensive organization has also been carefully planned. Although the Brown-Oğuz pairing was loaned to Samsunspor to gain experience, the current squad is being drilled to maintain solidity. Kartal has instructed his players to avoid risky passes in their own half and to play simply when under pressure. This controlled approach aims to minimize errors and maintain possession.
The midfield battle will feature a key duel between Mattéo Guendouzi and Beşiktaş's Orkun Kökçü. Guendouzi's physicality and ball-winning ability could give Fenerbahçe an advantage in this critical area. In defense, Milan Škriniar is expected to mark Beşiktaş striker Dušan Vlahović closely. These individual matchups are viewed as potentially decisive for the outcome of the game.
How do injuries affect the team's plans?
Fenerbahçe SK is grappling with significant injury concerns early in the season. Five first-team players are undergoing treatment, forcing the technical staff to consider rotation carefully. The absence of left-back Jayden Oosterwolde, in particular, necessitates alternative solutions for the left-sided plans. You can follow the status of all injured players on our injuries page.
The team's next fixture is an away match against 7th-placed Çaykur Rizespor on October 11, 2026. Points from that game will be vital to maintain their position near the top of the Süper Lig standings. A successful execution of İsmail Kartal's derby plan would provide a significant boost in both morale and the league table. You can view Fenerbahçe's complete match schedule on our fixtures page.
