Balıkesirspor End 40-Year Wait for Super Lig Promotion, Atakora Lalawelé Shines in Victory Over Istanbul BB
After a 40-year absence, Balıkesirspor has secured promotion to the Turkish Super Lig for the 2024-25 season, thanks to a thrilling 2-1 victory over Istanbul BB this weekend. Togolese forward Atakora Lalawelé played a pivotal role in the club’s historic return to the top division, scoring the opening goal in the 44th minute.
Lalawelé, on loan from AIK Stockholm, showed his class with a perfectly executed shot after a well-timed cross from the left wing. His right-footed finish left the goalkeeper with no chance, sending the crowd into raptures. The strike was a fitting moment for the Sparrowhawk, who has been a key figure for Balıkesirspor throughout the season.
Muhammet Reis doubled the lead in the 68th minute with a successful penalty, before Istanbul BB’s Tayfun Pektürk pulled one back. Despite the late pressure, Balıkesirspor held firm and celebrated their promotion in front of ecstatic fans, with the pitch invaded at the final whistle to mark the club’s return to the elite Turkish football division.
Over the course of the season, Lalawelé was a standout performer, playing 2,881 minutes in 36 matches, making him the coach’s most used player. His contributions were integral to Balıkesirspor’s successful campaign, and his goal in this crucial match will go down in history as a moment of personal and team triumph.
Watch the match highlights and the crowd’s joyous reaction here.
