Iskenderunspor’s fairytale run in the Turkish Cup continues, as the TFF 2. Lig underdogs defy the odds and lift the spirits of a city still healing from the devastating twin earthquakes of February 6, 2023.
Their remarkable journey began with a commanding 4-1 win over Tire 2021 in the third round. The club then stunned Süper Lig side Hatayspor with a 1-0 upset, sealing a historic place in the group stage.
Drawn into Group A alongside heavyweights, Iskenderunspor held 1. Lig outfit Ankaragücü to a 1-1 draw in Ankara and fought to a thrilling 2-2 stalemate against Trabzonspor at home. Their defining moment came with a gutsy 2-1 road victory over Fatih Karagümrük, securing an unbeaten five-point finish and second place behind Trabzonspor.
The club’s success has sparked celebration in İskenderun, where football has become a powerful symbol of hope and resilience following last year’s disaster.
Underdogs with Big Dreams
As anticipation builds for the quarterfinal draw at Riva Hasan Doğan National Teams Camp, Iskenderunspor President Hakan Bolat reflected on the team’s extraordinary feat:
“Reaching the quarterfinals undefeated is an incredible accomplishment. We could now face Beşiktaş, Fenerbahçe, or Konyaspor. It’s a challenging path, but we believe in our team’s resilience.”
Head coach Metin Akpunar hailed his players’ fighting spirit:
“These boys have written their names into İskenderun’s football history. Going unbeaten in a group with Trabzonspor is a phenomenal achievement.”
Eyes on the Big Stage
The team’s success hasn’t gone unnoticed — with transfer interest mounting for several standout performers.
Defender Mehmet Manış expressed his ambition for a blockbuster draw:
“I hope we face Beşiktaş or Fenerbahçe. We want to test ourselves against the best.”
Midfielder Kadir Turhan added, “We’ve made headlines across the country. Now, we aim to bring home another historic result.”
Iskenderunspor may be the surprise package of this year’s Turkish Cup, but with belief surging and a city behind them, their story is far from over.