Kasimpasa — Trabzonspor : Match Preview and Prediction for August 18,2025

Kasimpasa’s Recent Form

“Kasimpasa” completely faltered at the close of the previous season, finishing a mere tenth in the league table, despite having earlier opportunities to qualify for European competitions.

Pre-Season Preparations

The hosts, surprisingly, conducted a remarkably modest pre-season training, playing only a single friendly match against Hull City (0-1). The reason for such limited preparation is unclear, as there were no “behind-closed-doors” fixtures either, or perhaps information about them was simply unavailable.

Early Season Struggles

Their season opening also got off to a difficult start, marked by an away defeat to Antalyaspor (1-2) in the first Super Lig round. This loss was well-deserved, as Kasimpasa barely generated enough chances for their lone goal, registering an xG of only 0.68.

Summer Transfer Business

The host club’s management made no new permanent signings this summer transfer window, essentially acquiring almost all players on loan. Conversely, they parted ways with one of their key players, Yasin Ozcan, who transferred to Aston Villa.

Squad Status for Kasimpasa

Shota Arveladze will be able to rely on his full squad, as there are no injured or suspended players.

Trabzonspor’s Previous Season

“Trabzonspor” performed slightly better than their current opponent, securing seventh place. However, more is clearly expected of them; if not a title challenge, then at least qualification for European competitions.

Pre-Season Fixtures and Results

The visitors were also more active during their pre-season, playing five matches. However, two wins, two draws, and one loss can hardly be considered strong results, especially considering the caliber of their opponents: Dinamo Tbilisi (1-1), Araz (2-3), Zob Ahan (4-0), Persepolis (0-0), and Umraniyespor (3-1).

Opening League Match

Naturally, the primary objective was to start the championship with a victory, and Fatih Tekke’s side managed to do so, narrowly defeating newcomers Kocaelispor (1-0) at home. Yet, the quality of their play was far from impressive, especially given it was a home game against a newly promoted team. Trabzonspor ground out that win, creating chances worth exactly 1 xG. They were frankly fortunate to score an early goal in the second half.

Squad Reinforcements and Departures

The team suffered no significant losses, selling only Trézéguet to Al-Ahly, but Tekke no longer counted on him. They did manage to strengthen the squad, albeit selectively, signing Kazim Olaibe (from Rennes), Felipe Augusto (Cercle Brugge), Paul Onuachu (Southampton), and Wagner Pina (Estoril).

Player Absences for Trabzonspor

The Turkish coach has not included five players in the squad who are still recovering from injuries: Barišić, Cevikkan, Canak, Nwakaeme, and Baniya.