Erzurumspor FK 3-1 Al-Arabi Club (KUW) | International Club Friendly | 23 July 2026

Turkish second‑division side Erzurumspor FK registered an impressive 3-1 victory over Kuwaiti Premier League outfit Al‑Arabi Club in a lively friendly match played at Erzurum’s Kazım Karabekir Stadium. The match served as part of both clubs’ pre‑season preparations, with Erzurumspor showcasing their attacking depth and tactical flexibility.

First‑Half Fireworks

Erzurumspor started brightly and took the lead in the 12th minute. A swift counter‑attack involving winger Emre Kılınç and striker Moussa Sow ended with Sow slotting home from close range. Al‑Arabi responded well and equalised in the 33rd minute through a well‑placed header from captain Abdullah Al‑Mutairi following a corner. However, Erzurumspor regained the advantage before half‑time when midfielder Oğuzhan Özyakup curled a free‑kick over the wall and into the net.

Second‑Half Control

The Turkish side dominated possession after the restart, dictating the tempo and restricting Al‑Arabi’s attacking opportunities. The third goal arrived in the 68th minute, with substitute Caner Erkin finishing a well‑worked team move to make it 3-1. Al‑Arabi pushed forward in the final minutes but could not break down a resolute Erzurumspor defence.

Pre‑Season Implications

Erzurumspor head coach Yılmaz Vural praised his squad’s fitness levels and the performance of new signing Emre Kılınç, who caused problems throughout. The friendly also gave valuable minutes to young players ahead of the TFF First League campaign, which begins in mid‑August. Al‑Arabi, meanwhile, will take positives from their first‑half showing but will need to tighten up defensively ahead of the Kuwait Premier League season.

The match attracted a crowd of around 4,500, reflecting the strong local interest in Erzurumspor’s preparations under new ownership.