Quarter-Finals: FC Istanbul 3–2 FK Belgrade
Two surprise teams to take each other out in the Quarter Final of the FU Cup
Written by: Saad Maan, Forta Evening News
Prior to the tournament, nobody would've predicted Istanbul and Belgrade to be quarter-finalists of the FU Cup. Perhaps they got lucky with their groups, or perhaps they simply put deserved it — what I can say is that it was one of the most exciting matches so far. In a goal fest, the first of the five would come in the fifth minute of play. As Oscar Gale, who has since been released by the Serbian club, played a lofted pass into an empty midfield. Following the turnover, Muka Lodric, Leo de Deus Santos, and Greg Slightly would combine to create one of the goals of the tournament.
With an early 1-0 lead thanks to Lodric's adept finish, Istanbul would look to extend their lead, to no avail. Going into half-time, Belgrade opted for a much more offensive approach, adopting the 4-2-2-2 of London, which has only grown in popularity following their success.
The changes would prove to be disastrous, as Haydn Meadows sent in a cross for Leo de Deus Santos to head home, as he improved an already impressive showing.
In the 65th minute of play, desperation started to kick in for Belgrade. The manager could be seen on the sidelines instructing his team to up the tempo. Semmi clearly took this to heart, as he quickly sent in a through ball to Vagina Alphale, who made no mistake as he slotted in his first of the season. Only six minutes later, Belgrade were probing Istanbul's box, looking for space in a crowded space. Thanks to Semmi's intelligent positioning, he managed to send a one-touch-pass to the feet of Nemanja Tomcevski, who turned and shot.
Belgrade had come back from a 2-0 deficit, and with momentum on their side, looked most probable to find the winner. However, it wasn't to be for the Serbians. With only a few minutes to go, Greg Slightly sent a back heel pass to Leo de Deus Santos, who in turn sent him through on goal. Despite the pressure on his shoulders, Slightly would finish the chance and win the game for Istanbul.
Despite Semmi's heroics, Leo de Deus Santos was just too much for Belgrade. Istanbul continue their miracle run as they find themselves in the semi-finals in their first ever cup tournament. Whilst, Belgrade can leave the tournament happy with their performance.
