

Pendikspor continued their pre-season preparations with a confident 3-1 victory over Batman Petrolspor in an International Club Friendly played on 21 July 2026. The match, held at a neutral venue, offered both sides valuable minutes as they build towards their respective domestic campaigns.
Match Overview
The game began at a lively tempo, with Pendikspor – a side from the Turkish TFF First League – taking control from the opening whistle. Their superior technical quality and sharp passing created several early chances. However, it was Batman Petrolspor, a TFF Second League outfit, who initially threatened against the run of play. Despite the scoreline, the lower‑division side showed resilience and carved out opportunities on the counter‑attack.
First‑Half Dominance
Pendikspor broke the deadlock in the 23rd minute through a well‑worked set‑piece. A corner from the left was met with a powerful header by central defender Yusuf Abdioğlu, who rose highest to nod past the Batman goalkeeper. The goal settled any early nerves for the Pendikspor side, and they doubled their lead just before the half‑hour mark.
A swift counter‑attack saw winger Emrah Taşdemir race down the right flank before cutting inside and curling a left‑footed shot into the far corner. The 2‑0 scoreline reflected Pendikspor’s territorial advantage, though Batman Petrolspor had a goal disallowed for offside in the 35th minute after a promising move.
Second‑Half Response and Late Drama
The second half began with Batman Petrolspor showing more purpose. Their persistence paid off in the 55th minute when striker Mert Kula latched onto a through ball and finished calmly past the advancing Pendikspor keeper. The goal gave the underdogs a lifeline and momentarily shifted momentum.
Pendikspor responded by introducing fresh legs from the bench. The tactical change paid dividends in the 78th minute when substitute forward Ahmet Karadayı poked home from close range following a goalmouth scramble. This third goal effectively killed off the contest, allowing Pendikspor to manage the final phase without undue pressure.
Standout Performances
Among the home side, Yusuf Abdioğlu was commanding at the back not only for his goal but also for his organisation of the defensive line. On the flanks, Emrah Taşdemir provided a constant threat with his direct running. For Batman Petrolspor, Mert Kula impressed with his movement and finishing, suggesting he could be a key asset in the upcoming season.
Season Context
Both teams are deep into their pre‑season schedules. Pendikspor, who finished mid‑table in the TFF First League last term, will be aiming for a promotion push in 2026‑27, and this friendly win provides encouraging signs. Batman Petrolspor, meanwhile, will take heart from their competitive performance despite the defeat, as they prepare for another campaign in the third tier.
The result gives Pendikspor a morale boost ahead of further friendly fixtures, while Batman Petrolspor can focus on tightening their defensive shape before the competitive season begins.