Göztepe misses out on win in tough away match, drawing 3-3

Göztepe began their Trendyol Süper Lig season with a dramatic 3-3 draw against Samsunspor, a match that saw the team twice take the lead but ultimately concede a late equalizer. The opening game, dedicated to legendary coach Adnan Süvari, was a high-octane affair with six goals scored in total.

The team faced significant challenges before kickoff, with key defenders Sonko and Bokele absent due to injuries. New transfer Dennis was also unavailable, and while Juan was in the squad, he remained on the bench. Coach Stoilov fielded a lineup including Luka, Taha, Godoi, Ege, Arda, Matos, Antunes, Miroshi, Chernı, Armstrong, and Henrique.

Göztepe took an early lead in the 3rd minute through Matos, who scored with a powerful shot from a long throw-in. Samsunspor equalized in the 29th minute via a penalty awarded after a VAR review, with Moundilmandji converting. However, Göztepe regained the lead just before halftime with a goal from Emre in the 43rd minute.

The second half continued the back-and-forth scoring. Göztepe leveled the score at 2-2 in the 46th minute with Armstrong's goal, again from a long throw-in. Samsunspor was awarded another penalty in the 56th minute, but Moundilmandji struck the crossbar. Göztepe went ahead for a third time in the 65th minute with Efkan's skillful chip shot, making it 3-2.

Despite having chances to seal the victory, Göztepe could not extend their lead. In the final minutes, Samsunspor's Celil scored a stunning long-range goal in the 90th minute, securing the 3-3 draw. The match concluded with Göztepe nearly scoring a winner in stoppage time, but the draw marked a thrilling, albeit frustrating, start to the season.