Galatasaray’s must-win battle: Comeback against AZ Alkmaar, risk of postponement
Baris Alper Yilmaz (L) of Galatasaray in action against David Moller Wolfe (18) of AZ Alkmaar during the UEFA Europa League knockout round play-off first leg football match between AZ Alkmaar and Galatasaray at the AFAS Stadium in Alkmaar, Netherlands on February 13, 2025. (AA Photo)
The upcoming second-leg match of the UEFA Europa League Round of 16 between Galatasaray and AZ Alkmaar holds significant importance.
With Galatasaray facing a daunting 4-1 deficit from the first leg, the possibility of the match being postponed due to adverse weather conditions or other unforeseen circumstances is something to consider.
However, if the game proceeds as scheduled, Galatasaray has a monumental task ahead: they need to win by at least four goals to advance, while a three-goal margin would force extra time.
Galatasaray’s challenge: Overcoming 4-1 deficit
Galatasaray enters the second leg with a huge uphill battle. To progress, they must overcome a 4-1 loss in the first leg. Scoring at least four goals will be necessary for progression, while a three-goal margin will take the match into extra time.
The Turkish club’s history in European competitions, including a memorable UEFA Cup victory, provides both motivation and pressure to deliver a strong performance. However, the team will need to address their defensive frailties and improve their finishing to make a comeback.
AZ Alkmaar’s advantage: Cautious and defensive approach
AZ Alkmaar is in a strong position with a 4-1 advantage from the first leg. The Dutch side can afford to play a more conservative game in the return leg, focusing on defense to protect their lead.
While they can adopt a more cautious approach, Alkmaar must be prepared to capitalize on counterattacking opportunities should Galatasaray push forward aggressively in search of goals.
The key for Alkmaar will be to keep their composure and prevent Galatasaray from scoring early, which could shift the momentum.
1st leg: AZ Alkmaar’s dominance
The first leg showcased AZ Alkmaar’s attacking power as they dominated Galatasaray. The Turkish club’s defensive vulnerabilities were exposed, and they were unable to recover from the early setbacks.
Galatasaray’s inability to handle the pace and precision of Alkmaar’s attacks will need to be corrected in the second leg for any chance of progression.
Galatasaray’s inconsistencies in Europe
Throughout the Europa League, Galatasaray has shown mixed results, with both impressive victories and disappointing losses.
Their inability to defend consistently has been a major issue, and the first-leg loss to AZ Alkmaar highlighted this weakness.
Galatasaray must find a way to tighten up defensively while improving their offensive output to overturn the deficit.
Key absences: Galatasaray’s injury crisis
Galatasaray will be without several key players for the second leg, including Kaan Ayhan (suspended), Ismail Jakobs, Alvaro Morata, Yunus Akgun, and Mauro Icardi.
These absences will force coach Okan Buruk to rely on fringe players and youngsters, who must step up in this crucial match. Galatasaray’s depth will be tested, and the missing players’ absence will certainly be felt on both ends of the pitch.
Pressure of Galatasaray’s European legacy
Galatasaray has a proud history in European competitions, with their UEFA Cup triumph in 2000 still a high point in Turkish football.
However, their recent campaigns have been inconsistent, with several early exits in the Champions League and Europa League.
A loss to AZ Alkmaar in this tie would be another blow to the club’s European aspirations, adding pressure on both the coach and players.
Defensive weaknesses: A major concern for Galatasaray
One of Galatasaray’s major problems this season has been their defensive instability. In the Europa League, they’ve allowed numerous goals in almost every match, and their defensive frailties were on full display in the first leg against AZ Alkmaar.
To have any hope of advancing, Galatasaray must shore up their defense and avoid making the same mistakes that have plagued them throughout the campaign.
Predicted Lineups
Galatasaray:
- Muslera (Goalkeeper)
- Cuesta, Davinson, Abdulkadir, Jelert (Defense)
- Torreira, Sara (Midfield)
- Sallai, Mertens, Baris (Forward)
- Osimhen (Striker)
AZ Alkmaar:
- Owusu-Oduro (Goalkeeper)
- Maikuma, Goes, Penetra, Wolfe (Defense)
- Koopmeiners, Buurmeester (Midfield)
- Poku, Mijnans, Lahdo (Forward)
- Parrott (Striker)
The second leg between Galatasaray and AZ Alkmaar is a must-win for the Turkish side, while the Dutch team needs only to maintain their lead. Galatasaray’s hope lies in overcoming a significant deficit and their own defensive issues, while AZ Alkmaar will aim to hold firm and progress to the next round.
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