Fenerbahce vs Besiktas prediction, H2H and probable lineups - December 23, 2025
One of the marquee clashes of the opening round of the 2025/26 Turkish Cup group stage will take place on Tuesday at the Şükrü Saracoğlu Stadium in Istanbul, where Fenerbahce will host Besiktas. This meeting between two giants promises to be a true highlight of the tournament's early phase. I’m offering a bet on the outcome of this match with strong chances of success.
Match preview
The appointment of Domenico Tedesco as Fenerbahce’s head coach has been a breath of fresh air for the squad. The German tactician quickly got the team firing, and now the Yellow Canaries are delivering consistent results: just one defeat in 20 matches under his helm. This has allowed the club not only to secure the top spot in the Super Lig but also to progress successfully through the Europa League group stage.
Even with defensive absences, Fenerbahce remain a solid unit. Full-backs Mercan and Müldür have confidently filled in for the injured Brown and Semedo, with both even getting on the scoresheet. The team is unbeaten at home since the start of the season, counting heavyweights like Feyenoord, Stuttgart, and Galatasaray among their victims.
Sergen Yalçın’s tenure at the Besiktas helm hasn’t been all smooth sailing so far. Under his guidance, the team failed to qualify for any European competition and currently sits only fifth in the Super Lig. Still, a six-match unbeaten streak suggests the Black Eagles are gradually finding their rhythm.
The main issue for the visitors is injuries in the attacking line. The participation of Rafa Silva and Abraham is in doubt, while Ünder, Silva, and Hekimoglu are definitely sidelined. The lineup is filled with reserves, which severely limits tactical options. Furthermore, Besiktas’ defense has been leaky — 22 goals conceded in the league speaks for itself.
Probable lineups
- Fenerbahce: Moraes, Mercan, Osterwolde, Skriniar, Müldür, Fred, Yüksek, Aktürkoglu, Talisca, Asensio, En-Nesyri
- Besiktas: Destanoglu, Bulut, Paulista, Djalo, Yilmaz, Tıknaaz, Yilmaz, Cerny, Kökçü, Rashica, Toure
Match facts and head-to-head
- Fenerbahce have scored at least twice in five of their last six home games against Besiktas.
- Besiktas have avoided defeat in nine of the last 12 meetings between the sides.
- Besiktas have conceded 22 goals in the Super Lig — the worst record among the league’s top five teams.
Prediction
Despite the visitors’ decent form and positive head-to-head record, Besiktas’ squad issues — especially in attack — and their shaky defense make Fenerbahce clear favorites. The hosts are in excellent form, unbeaten at home, and are likely to capitalize on their opponent’s weaknesses. The prediction: Fenerbahce to win at 1.85 odds.
