Coach Mourinho on Fenerbahce winning UEFA’s ‘survival game’

Fenerbahce secured their place in the UEFA Champions League third qualifying round by defeating Switzerland’s Lugano 2-1 in a tense second-leg match at Ulker Stadium.

Under the guidance of their experienced coach Jose Mourinho, Fenerbahce displayed resilience and tactical prowess.

Fenerbahce coach Mourinho’s tactical mastery

“Yesterday, I told the team this was a survival game. Today, we achieved what we aimed for,” he said acknowledging the challenges faced by his team during the match.

The Portuguese coach praised the fans, saying, “The supporters created a fantastic atmosphere.”

Fenerbahce faced early difficulties when Mahmoud scored for Lugano in the seventh minute. The early goal put pressure on the Turkish side, and a crucial substitution followed when Fred was forced off due to injury in the 31st minute. Mourinho recalled this setback, stating, “Fred’s injury forced us to use a substitution early, which was not ideal in a match that could have gone to extra time.”

Despite these challenges, Fenerbahce managed to turn the game around in the second half. Mourinho made key tactical changes, bringing on Mert Hakan Yandas for Rade Krunic at halftime. “We needed to change our mentality and approach in the second half,” Mourinho said. “The players who came off the bench performed very well.”

Key performances, turning points in Fenerbahce-Lugano match

Edin Dzeko’s goal in the 59th minute leveled the score, and a late goal from Sebastian Szymanski secured the win. “Dzeko has been crucial for us,” Mourinho commented. “His experience and ability to score in key moments make a big difference.”

Dominik Livakovic’s performance in goal was another highlight for Fenerbahce. Mourinho acknowledged his crucial saves, saying, “Livakovic played a vital role in our victory. If he hadn’t made those saves, the game could have been very different.”

Livakovic prevented Lugano from doubling their lead, which allowed Fenerbahce to stay in the game and eventually win.

Coach Mattia Croci-Torti proud of Lugano despite defeat

Lugano’s coach, Mattia Croci-Torti, expressed pride in his team despite the loss. “Fenerbahce is a higher quality team than us, but I am proud of my team’s character,” he said. Croci-Torti acknowledged the quality of Fenerbahce’s players, such as Dzeko, and reflected on the challenges his team faced, particularly in the second half.

“Fenerbahce started the second half very strongly. Dzeko, who has played for Inter and Manchester City, showed his quality. I’m disappointed because we could have achieved more, but I’m proud of my team for making it difficult for Fenerbahce in both matches.”

Croci-Torti also noted the preparation and effort his team put into the match. “We prepared well and came here to win. Mourinho congratulating us is nice, but it doesn’t change the result. We made it difficult for them and showed character.”

Mourinho reveals next steps for Fenerbahce

Looking ahead, Mourinho mentioned that he had not yet analyzed their next opponent, Lille, but anticipated a tough challenge. “We will start studying Lille tomorrow. Turkish teams often face difficulties against strong European sides, and we will need some luck with the draw,” he said.

Mourinho also addressed the team’s progress and future potential. “Step by step, we are getting better. Some players are still getting fit, and as we continue to improve, we will become even more competitive.”

The victory and progression to the next round mark an important step for Fenerbahce under Mourinho’s leadership. The fans’ support and the team’s resilience were crucial factors in overcoming the challenges posed by Lugano. As Fenerbahce prepares to face Lille, the team’s focus will be on maintaining their momentum and addressing any weaknesses revealed during the match against Lugano.

The upcoming fixtures in the Champions League promise to be challenging but also an opportunity for Fenerbahce to show their growth and ambition on the European stage. Fenerbahce will face Lille in the third qualifying round, with the first leg taking place on Aug. 6 and the return leg on Aug. 13.