Başakşehir defender Kazımcan Karataş has revealed the tactical approach used to limit Trabzonspor forward Paul Onuachu during their 1-1 draw in the Turkish Super Lig, highlighting a disciplined set-piece strategy that kept the striker largely quiet.

Trabzonspor coach Fatih Tekke, handed Onuachu a starting place despite the forward having missed the previous week’s game due to injury.

His return was expected to boost the home side’s attacking threat, particularly in aerial duels and set-piece situations.

However, Başakşehir executed a well-drilled defensive plan to neutralise the striker’s influence, especially during corners and dead-ball situations.

The match saw Trabzonspor take the lead through Felipe Augusto, who finished a well-worked move to put the home side ahead.

Başakşehir continued to push for an equaliser throughout the contest, eventually finding it in dramatic fashion when Davie Selke scored in the final minute to secure a 1-1 draw.

After the match, Kazımcan Karataş reflected on both the result and his individual duel with Onuachu, expressing frustration at not securing all three points while highlighting the team’s European ambitions.

“We are disappointed because we deserved the win. The equalizer came in the last minute. We want to go to Europe," Kazımcan said, as quoted by 61saat.

He also detailed the specific marking strategy used against Onuachu during set-pieces, stressing that it had been carefully prepared in training. Kazımcan added, “I was matched against Paul Onuachu in corners, we had practiced this. I can say I didn’t let him get a shot off.”

Onuachu remains the standout figure in the Turkish Super Lig this season, continuing to dominate the scoring charts with 22 goals.

The Super Eagles striker has been a consistent force for Trabzonspor, combining physical presence and sharp finishing to establish himself as the league’s top scorer.

Wale Adejumo