In a highly anticipated showdown, fierce rivals Fenerbahce and Galatasaray are set to clash for the third time this season in the Turkish Cup quarterfinals on Wednesday, April 2, 2025. With both teams vying for a spot in the semifinals, this match carries significant weight as they also battle for supremacy in the Super Lig title race.
The historic rivalry between these two clubs adds an extra layer of intensity to what is already a high-stakes encounter. Galatasaray, the most successful club in Turkish Cup history with 18 titles, is eager to capture its first trophy since 2019. Meanwhile, Fenerbahce, who last lifted the cup in 2023, aims to bolster their silverware collection under the management of Jose Mourinho.
As both teams prepare for this knockout clash, Fenerbahce enters the match with renewed confidence following a 4-2 victory over Bodrum in their first game after the international break. In that match, Milan Skriniar opened the scoring in the fifth minute, followed by goals from Oguz Aydın, Sebastian Szymanski, and Talisca, showcasing a dominant first-half performance that set the tone for their comeback.
On the other hand, Galatasaray, managed by Okan Buruk, has had the upper hand in their previous encounters this season. However, the stakes are higher now, and Fenerbahce will look to turn the tables in front of their home crowd at the Sukru Saracoglu Stadium.
Kick-off for this thrilling encounter is set for 6:45 PM BST / 1:45 PM ET, and fans are buzzing with anticipation. The winner of this match will advance to the semifinals, where they will face either Konyaspor or Iskenderunspor, adding further incentive to this already critical match.
In terms of team news, Fenerbahce is set to welcome back key players. Caglar Soyuncu, who has been sidelined with an injury since the Europa League Round of 16, is expected to return to action. Diego Carlos, who has had limited game time since his winter signing due to a hamstring strain, has also resumed individual training and could feature in the match.
However, Fenerbahce faces some defensive setbacks with both Soyuncu and Carlos being fitness concerns. Alexander Djiku and Yusuf Akçiçek are likely to partner at center-back, while Fred, who was ruled out of the Bodrum fixture, is on track to recover in time for this crucial derby.
Meanwhile, Galatasaray will be without their star striker Mauro Icardi, who is sidelined with a cruciate ligament injury. The team will also miss Ismail Jakobs due to an Achilles tendon rupture and Yunus Akgun, who is unavailable because of a muscle injury. These absences could significantly impact Galatasaray's attacking options as they aim to outmaneuver their rivals.
As the match approaches, the atmosphere is electric, with fans from both sides ready to support their teams in what promises to be an unforgettable encounter. The stakes are high, and both clubs know that victory will not only secure a place in the next round but also provide a psychological edge in the ongoing league battle.
In summary, this Turkish Cup quarterfinal between Fenerbahce and Galatasaray is set to be a thrilling spectacle, with pride and silverware on the line. As the clock ticks down to kick-off, both teams are prepared to leave everything on the pitch in pursuit of glory.
