Ankaragücü, currently eighth in the TFF 2. Lig White Group, are pushing for a play‑off berth with a decisive clash against Adana 01 FK on 17 January 2026. A victory could lift them to seventh place, securing a play‑off spot. Coach Karatepe emphasizes squad rotation and mental toughness, while midfield dynamo Cenk Şahin, defender Mehmet Yılmaz, and striker Arda Kara drive the push.
Key Matches Ahead
The remaining schedule features a blend of home and away battles against direct rivals occupying the middle of the table. The most pivotal encounter arrives on 17 January 2026, when Ankaragücü travels to face Adana 01 FK, a team positioned one place above them. Both clubs share similar points totals and goal differences, making this fixture a litmus test for the play‑off ambition.
Squad Leaders
Midfield Engine
Cenk Şahin has logged approximately 1,350 minutes, contributing four goals and seven assists. His box‑to‑box dynamism fuels Ankaragücü’s transition play.
Defensive Anchor
Mehmet Yılmaz recorded around 1,420 minutes, scoring two set‑piece goals and maintaining a 92 % tackle success rate. The backline concedes just over one goal per match on average.
Scoring Leader
Arda Kara amassed roughly 1,210 minutes, netting nine goals and adding three assists. His 0.74 goals‑per‑90‑minutes ratio places him among the league’s top marksmen.
Coach Karatepe’s Play‑Off Strategy
Head coach Recep Karatepe stresses that every remaining game feels like a final. He has adopted a compact 4‑2‑3‑1 formation to enable swift transitions from defense to attack. Emphasis is placed on defensive discipline, mental resilience, and strategic rotation to keep key players fresh while providing opportunities for fringe squad members.
Adana 01 FK Clash: Six‑Point Swing
The upcoming match is more than a routine fixture; it represents a potential six‑point swing. Ankaragücü previously secured a narrow 1‑0 home victory over Adana 01 FK, giving them a psychological edge. The duel between play‑makers Arda Kara and Adana 01 FK’s midfielder Mert Gül is expected to dictate the tempo and outcome.
Season Outlook
A win against Adana 01 FK would close the gap to the play‑off line, boost morale, and generate momentum for the final stretch of the season. Conversely, a loss could push Ankaragücü further down the table, turning the promotion chase into a sprint. Regardless of the result, the club’s blend of strategic planning, squad depth, and historical resilience positions it as a strong contender for a play‑off berth and a potential return to the Süper Lig.
