Rizespor vs Alanyaspor on January 25
As the Turkish Süper Lig season continues to unfold, Rizespor will host Alanyaspor on January 25, 2026, in a crucial clash at the Çaykur Didi Stadium. Both teams will be looking to gain vital points as they continue to battle for mid-table stability, with both sides knowing the significance of a positive result here. Rizespor is aiming to bounce back from a recent slump, while Alanyaspor seeks to maintain their momentum and move higher in the standings. The match promises to be a high-stakes encounter, filled with tactical intrigue and fierce competition.
Rizespor: Tactical Approach and Current Form
Rizespor enters this match after a mixed set of results in their last five games, with two wins, two losses, and one draw. Their most recent defeat to a fellow mid-table team highlighted their issues with consistency, but they remain competitive in the league. Manager Hamza Hamzaoğlu’s preferred formation has often been a 4-2-3-1, designed to solidify their defense while allowing counter-attacking opportunities on the wings. Rizespor’s primary strength lies in their quick transitions and ability to exploit spaces behind the opposition's full-backs, especially through their wingers, who provide pace and creativity.
Statistically, Rizespor tends to sit back and absorb pressure, with an average possession rate of around 45%. Their xG (expected goals) numbers reflect their conservative approach, with 1.1 goals per match, but their defensive metrics, such as tackles and interceptions, are strong, with a high pressing game in their defensive third. Rizespor’s key players include their star midfielder, David Akintola, who has been instrumental in their build-up play, and their captain, Marius Constantin, who anchors the defense. However, they will be without influential forward Enzo Crivelli, who is suspended, limiting their attacking options.
Alanyaspor: Tactical Approach and Current Form
Alanyaspor comes into this match in solid form, with three wins and two draws in their last five games. The team has displayed an aggressive and fast-paced style under manager Francesco Farioli, typically lining up in a 4-3-3 formation. The team's strength lies in their pressing intensity and ability to dominate possession, averaging 58% possession across their recent fixtures. Alanyaspor’s ability to create scoring chances is reflected in their xG of 1.6 per match, driven largely by their dynamic forward line and quick passing in the final third.
Alanyaspor is led by the attacking brilliance of their striker, Famara Diédhiou, who has been in excellent form, contributing directly to their scoring output. The midfield trio of Ibrahim Sissoko, Salih Uçan, and Júnior Caiçara provides a solid base for Alanyaspor’s creative play, combining defensive robustness with attacking flair. The team will be without their right-back, Juanfran, who is sidelined with an injury, but the presence of experienced players like Uçan should help fill the gap. The key to Alanyaspor’s success in this match will lie in their ability to press high and create turnovers in Rizespor's half.
Head-to-Head: History and Psychology
The recent history between these two clubs has been relatively balanced, with Rizespor having a slight edge in the last 5 encounters, winning two and drawing two. The last meeting between the sides ended in a 1-1 draw, which reflects the tight nature of their battles. Historically, both teams have been evenly matched, but Alanyaspor has looked more comfortable in recent seasons, finishing higher in the league standings and often outplaying Rizespor in terms of possession and attacking prowess.
The psychological factor is key here; while Rizespor will be keen to end their run of poor results, Alanyaspor is in the better form and will be confident of securing all three points. Rizespor’s struggles against top-half teams have been evident this season, and they will need to overcome this mental hurdle if they are to pose a real threat.
Key Battles and Critical Zones
One of the most crucial battles will be between Rizespor's left-winger, Davide Petrucci, and Alanyaspor's right-back, who will likely be tasked with filling in for the injured Juanfran. Petrucci's pace and dribbling ability could exploit any gaps on the right side of the defense, especially if Alanyaspor’s high pressing leaves space on the flanks. Additionally, Rizespor's ability to deal with Alanyaspor’s high press will be tested—if they fail to break the press, it could lead to costly turnovers in dangerous areas.
The midfield duel will also be key. Rizespor’s Akintola, who likes to operate in pockets of space, will go head-to-head with Alanyaspor’s energetic midfield trio. If Akintola can get on the ball in advanced positions, he could exploit the space left by Alanyaspor’s pressing midfielders. On the flip side, if Alanyaspor dominates possession, their midfield control could nullify Rizespor’s counter-attacking opportunities.
Match Scenario and Prediction
The match is expected to be closely contested, with both teams having distinct tactical approaches. Rizespor will look to absorb pressure and launch counter-attacks, while Alanyaspor will dominate possession and press high. Given the attacking talent at Alanyaspor’s disposal, it is likely they will control the tempo of the game, forcing Rizespor to defend deep. Rizespor’s success will depend on their ability to capitalize on Alanyaspor’s high defensive line and create counter-attacking opportunities.
Ultimately, Alanyaspor’s form and superior pressing game should see them edge this encounter. A narrow 2-1 win for Alanyaspor seems like a plausible outcome, with both teams scoring but Alanyaspor taking the lead through their superior attacking play. Expect Rizespor to make it tough for them, but ultimately, Alanyaspor’s midfield and attacking depth will prevail.
Final Thoughts
The key question this match will answer is whether Rizespor can overcome their tactical limitations against a high-pressing, possession-based side like Alanyaspor. With injuries and suspensions affecting both teams, the dynamics of this game could shift quickly. However, Alanyaspor's superior form and attacking capabilities make them the favorites for this clash. Will Rizespor find a way to stifle Alanyaspor’s attack, or will their defensive struggles cost them once again?
