Balikesirspor came from behind to beat Kepez Belediyespor 2-1 in the Turkish Third League on 11 November 2026, delivering a composed second-half performance that turned a difficult away trip into three valuable points. Kepez Belediyespor started brightly and took the lead, but Balikesirspor responded before half-time and found the winner after the break.

Match overview

The hosts began with energy and pressed high, forcing Balikesirspor into a series of early clearances. That pressure paid off in the 23rd minute when Emre Yıldız finished from close range after a neat move down the left. Kepez Belediyespor had chances to double their advantage, but Balikesirspor weathered the storm and gradually began to control possession.

The equaliser arrived four minutes before the break. Mert Çetin latched onto a loose ball at the edge of the area and drove a low strike into the bottom corner, changing the mood of the contest. From that point on, Balikesirspor looked the more assured side, and they completed the comeback in the 77th minute through Serkan Kaya, who headed home from a well-delivered set piece.

Key moments

• 23rd minute: Emre Yıldız opens the scoring for Kepez Belediyespor after a quick passing sequence on the left.
• 31st minute: Kepez Belediyespor nearly add a second, but a goal-bound effort is blocked on the line.
• 41st minute: Mert Çetin equalises for Balikesirspor with a low drive from the edge of the box.
• 77th minute: Serkan Kaya heads in the winner from a corner, completing the turnaround.
• 90+3 minutes: Kepez Belediyespor push numbers forward, but Balikesirspor defend the final ball comfortably.

Tactical story

Kepez Belediyespor’s high press caused problems early on, but it also left space behind their midfield once Balikesirspor settled. The visitors adjusted by dropping their central midfielders deeper and using quick switches of play to stretch the home side. That shift allowed Balikesirspor to gain a foothold and ultimately dominate the second half.

Balikesirspor’s winner came from a set piece, an area they targeted throughout the evening. Kepez Belediyespor defended bravely for long spells but struggled to clear their lines under sustained pressure. In the final stages, the hosts increased their tempo and delivered several crosses into the box, yet Balikesirspor’s back line remained organised and protected the lead.

Standout players

Mert Çetin was central to Balikesirspor’s comeback, not only for his equalising goal but also for his link-up play between midfield and attack. Serkan Kaya produced the decisive moment with his header and worked tirelessly defensively at set pieces. For Kepez Belediyespor, Emre Yıldız was the brightest attacking outlet and took his goal well, while their goalkeeper made several important saves to keep the score level for as long as possible.

Table impact and what’s next

The win gives Balikesirspor a timely boost in the Turkish Third League standings and reinforces their reputation as a side capable of grinding out away results. Kepez Belediyespor will be frustrated to have taken the lead and lost, especially after a promising opening half. Both teams now prepare for their next fixtures, with Kepez Belediyespor focusing on game management and Balikesirspor looking to build momentum from a strong second-half display.