Rizespor vs Galatasaray Betting Tips and Predictions

The first Turkish Cup semi-final sees two out-of-form sides face off as Rizespor, who are 14th in the Turkish Super Lig, host Galatasaray, who are in eighth place. Neither side has won any of their last six matches so it seems unlikely this game will be a classic. Gala’s winless run is longer than their opponents – it is nine matches since they tasted victory, while Rizespor have won twice in their last eight games.

With the second leg not taking place for two weeks, having an advantage from the first game could be pivotal in deciding which sides goes on to the final. Galatasaray may be in the poorest run of form of the season but their squad is packed with players who have been there and done it before.

Lukas Podolski has not had as good a season as some would have expected of the experienced German international but he has scored 12 goals this season, while Rizespor’s main goal threat is Leonard Kweuke, who has 11 goals from 22 appearances this season.

Experience counts for a lot in the latter stages of a cup competition and this is where Galatasaray certainly have the edge over Rizespor, who have never won the cup before. In contract, Cimbom have been Turkish Cup champions on 16 occasions, including in both 2014 and 2015.

Galatasaray to Win at 7/5 with Betfair is therefore our tip for this match despite their poor form, while a 1-0 away win can be backed at 17/2, also with Betfair.