Galatasaray is gearing up for one of its toughest challenges of the season as it hosts AZ Alkmaar for the return leg of the Europa League playoffs on February 20, 2025. The match, set to kick off at 14:45 Brazilian time at RAMS Park, follows a disappointing 4-1 defeat for the Turkish side in the first leg.
Needing to win by at least three goals to force extra time, and four clear goals to advance outright, the pressure is on for Galatasaray. Coach Okan Buruk emphasized the importance of the team's home crowd at their disposal, as they aim to rectify past mistakes. “The beginning of the match will be very important to boost our hopes with the pressure we will exert with our supporters,” Buruk stated. “We need to show clearly what we did not accomplish in the first leg.”
The first match was marked by notable moments, including goals from AZ's Sven Mijnans, Troy Parrott, Jordy Clasie, and David Møller Wolfe, with Roland Sallai scoring the lone goal for Galatasaray. The home side also dealt with adversity, as defender Kaan Ayhan received a red card early on, leaving them at a disadvantage.
AZ Alkmaar heads to Istanbul feeling confident after their strong performance. Being able to lose by two goals and still advance adds to their competitive edge. Coach Maarten Martens remains focused but acknowledges the challenge posed by Galatasaray's supporters. “We need to start well and not be surprised,” Martens remarked. “It will be completely different here with their fans.” AZ's recent form has been solid, boasting three consecutive victories leading up to the match.
Both teams are facing absences: Galatasaray will miss Álvaro Morata, Ismail Jakobs, Yunus Akgün, and Mauro Icardi due to injuries, along with Ayhan, who is suspended. AZ will be without Ruben van Bommel, Westerveld, and Sadiq, also recovering from injuries.
Fans can catch the match live on Band and Cazé TV, with the stakes exceptionally high for the Turkish side. Broadcasts will be available nationwide, and the match will see Galatasaray eyes set not only on victory but also on preserving their hopes for advancement at this stage of the competition.
Analyst opinions are divided as to whether Galatasaray can pull off what many are calling nearly impossible. The betting odds suggest not only favoring Galatasaray for victory at 1.70 but also confirm the prevailing expectation for AZ to qualify, listed at 1.14.
The historical performance of both clubs adds another layer of intrigue. Galatasaray struggled in the group stages of the Europa League, finishing 14th, accumulating only 13 points. AZ, meanwhile, performed marginally worse, placing 19th with 11 points. Despite their poor showing, both teams enter the game with motives far beyond numbers on paper; this is about pride and legacy.
Fans have remained hopeful, as Galatasaray's supporters typically bring intense energy to the stadium, which could be the X-factor needed for the home team. Both clubs' histories are textured with past European exploits, and this match could serve as another chapter for each as they navigate their respective challenges.
Overall, the match serves not only as a test of skill but also of mental fortitude, particularly for Galatasaray, who must break through the disadvantage to advance to the next phase. The battle lines have been drawn, with the anticipated clash set to showcase the heights of European football.