Trabzonspor’s grip on the Turkish Super Lig title race is loosening, and manager Fatih Tekke is directing his frustration squarely at the standard of refereeing. Following Tuesday’s 1-1 draw at home to Basaksehir at Papara Park, Tekke publicly criticised referee Alper Akarsu, alleging that Nigerian striker Paul Onuachu was repeatedly fouled without protection throughout the match.
“There were obvious fouls on Onuachu,” Tekke said in his post-match comments. “In several of these situations, the opponent won the ball back while our players were being fouled. I am uncomfortable with these things.” The manager also raised doubts about the consistency of decision-making during the game, adding: “I just watched two incidents back. Could a penalty have been given? It’s debatable. There were some interesting decisions. There’s a ball from a corner and Augusto’s position. There is no standard in the officiating. Everyone complains about the referees.”
Onuachu, who completed the full 90 minutes, had a notably muted outing by his own high standards, registering just a single shot on target. Tekke attributed the 29-year-old’s limited influence to the leniency afforded to Basaksehir defenders, who he claims were allowed to foul the Super Eagles international without consequence.
The dropped points have had immediate consequences in the standings. Trabzonspor have slipped from second to third in the Super Lig table and have now surrendered four points across their last two matches. Having once trailed league leaders Galatasaray by only two points, the recent run of form has put their title ambitions in serious jeopardy.
Further compounding their situation, Trabzonspor’s place in the UEFA Europa League qualification spots is also under threat. The club now sits just two points clear of Fenerbahce, meaning a continuation of their current form could cost them a European berth entirely.
Despite the team’s dip, Onuachu continues to lead the Turkish Super Lig scoring charts with 22 goals this season, underlining his importance to Trabzonspor’s campaign even when his individual impact is curtailed. The Nigerian international has been a central figure in Trabzonspor’s challenge this term, and his ability to rediscover his best form in the remaining matches could prove decisive in determining where the club finishes.
With the title race entering its final stretch, Galatasaray remain in the driving seat. Trabzonspor’s remaining fixtures and their ability to manage key players like Onuachu effectively will be closely watched as the club attempts to salvage both their championship ambitions and secure European football for next season.
