Trabzonspor Looks to Extend Perfect Run Under Thomas Reis in Black Sea Derby Against Rizespor
The Çaykur Didi Stadium will serve as the backdrop for the latest installment of the Black Sea derby on October 26, 2026, as Rizespor welcomes a high-flying Trabzonspor side for a pivotal Week 9 clash in the Turkish Süper Lig. The match, scheduled for a 19:00 local time kickoff, features two sides trending in opposite directions, with the visitors looking to cement their place among the league’s elite.
Trabzonspor enters the fixture in formidable form under the management of Thomas Reis. Since taking charge, Reis has overseen five consecutive victories across all competitions. Perhaps more impressively, his side has maintained clean sheets in four of those five matches while consistently finding the back of the net, scoring at least two goals in every outing during this perfect run. This resurgence has propelled Trabzonspor to fourth place in the standings, boasting 16 points from eight matches with a record of five wins, one draw, and two losses.
Rizespor, meanwhile, finds itself in 13th place as they struggle to find consistency. With 10 points through eight matches—consisting of three wins, one draw, and four defeats—the hosts are desperate to reverse a worrying trend at home. Remarkably, Rizespor has yet to score a goal or record a victory at the Çaykur Didi Stadium this season. Breaking that drought in a regional derby would provide a significant morale boost for a side looking to climb into the top half of the table.
Despite Rizespor’s recent struggles, historical data suggests they remain a threat on their own turf in this specific fixture. Rizespor has managed to win three of their last four home league matches against Trabzonspor. However, the overall momentum favors the visitors, who have won the last four head-to-head encounters between the two clubs regardless of the venue.
Squad selection will be a challenge for both managers due to significant injury lists. Trabzonspor will be without the services of Okay Yokuşlu, Batagov, Onuachu, and Malinovskyi. There is also uncertainty surrounding Saviolo, who sustained an injury during a recent match against Hearts; his availability is expected to be a game-time decision. Rizespor faces its own personnel shortages, with Attila Mosci, Ahmed Kutucu, and Can Bozdoğan all confirmed to miss the derby due to their respective injuries.
Tactically, Trabzonspor is expected to lean on the leadership of Salah, whose influence has been credited for the team’s high-tempo style of play this season. Their probable lineup includes Onana in goal, supported by a defensive line of Cabral, Savic, Nwaiwu, and Pina. The midfield and attack are projected to feature Fabinho, Ozan, Aral, Muçi, Salah, and Franculino.
For the hosts, manager expectations point toward a starting eleven featuring Fofana between the posts, with Mithat, Bakayoko, Sagnan, and Ariss in defense. The middle and forward lines are likely to consist of Taylan, Mebude, Olawoyin, Laçi, Mihaila, and Sowe. Both teams will be competing under the officiating of referee Halil Umut Meler.
As the Black Sea rivals prepare to face off, the match presents a classic conflict of styles: a Rizespor side fighting to end a scoring drought in front of their home supporters versus a Trabzonspor squad riding the momentum of a five-game winning streak and a revitalized defense.
