Interesting Cup final – Galatasaray vs Ankaragucu. Galatasaray had a chance – and the ambition – to save the season. Ankaragucu was also aiming to restore its respectful position in Turkish football after the years of decline. Objectively, Galatasaray was the stronger team and they took full advantage of their home leg, winning 3-0. In Ankara the hosts pushed forward and won, but only 2-1. Galatasaray received the Turkish Cup.
Strong season for Ankaragucu and too bad they were unable to win the Cup, but realistically it was not up to them – the team run mostly on the adrenalin and excitement of returning to the top league. More or less, they overperformed this year. Facing a win or lose situation, they bowed down to more experienced opponent.
A certain irony in the otherwise well deserved victory – with it, Galatasaray still finished ahead of their arch-rivals Fenerbahce, which ended empty-handed. Yes, it was terrible season, but Galtasaray did not miss its chance to still win a trophy. Wounded pride was perhaps the driving force – and experienced leading Turkish players certainly found enough strength against lesser opponent like Ankaragucu. So, awful season, but with a cup in their hands. Their 7th and first since 1976. Funny game, football – the highest and lowest at the same time.