Beşiktaş Continue Their European Journey With Another Last 16 Qualification
Beşiktaş have secured their place in the Last 16 of the EHF European Cup, overcoming Greek side PAOK with an aggregate score of 55–54.
The Turkish representatives entered the second leg in Thessaloniki with a five-goal advantage after winning the first match 30–25 in Istanbul.
Despite a 29–25 defeat in the return leg at the Mikra 3 Sports Hall, watched by 950 spectators, Beşiktaş managed to protect their aggregate lead through disciplined and controlled gameplay. The high-tempo match showcased strong physicality and strategic awareness from both sides. Beşiktaş trailed 14–11 at halftime, but prevented PAOK from widening the gap in the second half, maintaining the crucial goal difference needed to advance.
Standout Performers for Beşiktaş
According to the official match report, Eyüp Arda Yıldız led Beşiktaş in scoring with 5 goals. Other key contributors included:
Ali Emre Babacan – 3 goals
Halil İbrahim Öztürk – 3 goals
Eduardo Gurbindo – 3 goals
Baran Nalbantoğlu – 2 goals
The fact that nearly the entire squad contributed to the scoreboard played a significant role in securing the aggregate victory.
Key to the Qualification: The Five-Goal First-Leg Victory
Although Beşiktaş were behind on the scoreboard in the second leg, their five-goal win in Istanbul proved decisive. The team maintained tactical discipline throughout the match, ensuring PAOK could not close the gap and overturn the aggregate difference.
Beşiktaş Reach the Last 16 for the Third Consecutive Season
With this result, Beşiktaş have advanced to the Last 16 stage for the third consecutive season—a significant achievement for both the club and Turkish handball. The black-and-whites continue their strong presence in European competitions and will look to carry this momentum into the next round.
Bakmadan Geçme
