Bolstered by Turkish stars, Benfica hope to maintain momentum this season

By Emre Asikci

ISTANBUL (AA) - With the addition of Turkish star Kerem Akturkoglu, Benfica hope to build on the momentum from last year's modest gains in both domestic and European football leagues.

The Portuguese team is aiming for success that extends well beyond the 2022-23 season with a strong squad bolstered by Turkish players.

Akturkoglu, who recently moved to Portuguese club Benfica at the start of the season after four successful years at Galatasaray, has already piqued the interest of fans with his impressive performances early in his tenure with his new team.

The left winger has made an immediate impact in the Primeira Liga, providing two goals and two assists in three games, quickly establishing himself as a key player for the team.

His impressive form extended to the international stage, with the Turkish player scoring two goals in two appearances in the UEFA Champions League (UCL).

The 25-year-old made his debut for Benfica on Sept. 14, in the fifth week of the Portuguese top-tier, and helped his team seal a 4-1 victory against Santa Clara.

Starting in the first 11 minutes, Akturkoglu wasted no time to make an impact, netting his first goal for the team. The goal came from an assist by fellow Turkish teammate Orkun Kokcu.

Turkish star also made his UEFA Champions League debut for Benfica against FK Crvena Zvezda on Sept. 19. He quickly made his mark by scoring his team's first goal in the 2-1 away victory.

Akturkoglu came to the fore with his assists for two goals as Benfica beat Boavista 3-0 away in the Portuguese League on Sep. 23.

Five days later, he added one more goal in a 5-1 win against Gil Vicente league game.

The left-winger most recently scored the first goal of the 4-0 win over Atletico Madrid in the Champions League on Wednesday night.

- Orkun Kokcu shines for Benfica

Kokcu, who joined Benfica from Feyenoord on a five-year contract, made a significant contribution to the Portuguese giants last season.

He netted seven goals and 11 assists in 43 games for Benfica.

However, Kokcu was disappointed with his move to Benfica, saying, "It wasn’t what I expected. From the beginning they never made me feel important. Not even for the coach."

The 23-year-old midfielder was lately named player of the match in Benfica's commanding 4-0 victory against Atletico Madrid in the UEFA Champions League.

Kokcu told UEFA.com that he was overjoyed following the game, particularly with the three points.

However, with Bruno Lage replacing coach Roger Schmidt on a two-year deal, Kokcu's performance has captured attention.

Kokcu, so far, scored four goals and three assists in nine games, including two goals in the Champions League.

The Turkish midfielder expressed his happiness to be a part of the team, stating: "It was a really important game at home and now I think we are in a good position. And for me personally, it is also very nice after my first season here last year. Now it's getting much better."

He has 34 caps for Türkiye and has scored two goals.