The highly anticipated Istanbul Derby between Fenerbahce and Galatasaray is set for Monday evening at Sukru Saracoglu Stadium. This clash promises to be a crucial encounter for both teams, as they currently sit in close proximity in the Turkish Super Lig standings, separated by just one point. Fenerbahce aims to capitalize on their unbeaten streak to launch themselves to the top of the table.
Match Preview
This season, Fenerbahce has emerged as a formidable competitor, currently positioned just below league leaders Galatasaray. After experiencing a resurgence with five consecutive league victories, Fenerbahce decreased their deficit in the standings. With a total of 31 points, they have secured nine wins and four draws, showcasing a potent offense with 18 goals in their last five matches.
Fenerbahce’s Recent Form
- Points: 31
- Wins: 9
- Draws: 4
- Last Match: 5-2 victory over Caykur Rizespor
- Goals Scored in Last 5 Matches: 18
- Goals Conceded in Last 5 Matches: 7
Fenerbahce has maintained an impressive unbeaten streak of 11 games across all competitions. However, they faced a challenging midweek match against Ferencvaros in the Europa League, finishing with a 1-1 draw.
Galatasaray’s Recent Form
In contrast, Galatasaray enters the derby following a disappointing 1-0 loss against Union SG in the Champions League. They have experienced two defeats in their last three matches, including falling to Kocaelispor in their previous Super Lig game. The defending champions hold a tally of 31 points from 10 wins, two draws, and one defeat this season.
- Points: 31
- Wins: 10
- Draws: 2
- Losses: 1
- Goals Scored: 28
- Goals Conceded: 8
Team News
Fenerbahce nearly has its full squad available, but Caglar Soyuncu is out with a knee injury. Yigit Efe Demir is doubtful, while Nelson Semedo returns after serving a suspension. Youssef En-Nesyri, alongside Mauro Icardi, stands out as potential key players for their respective teams.
Galatasaray, on the other hand, faces more significant injury concerns. They will be without several players, including Yunus Akgun and Victor Osimhen, while others are nursing injuries or serving suspensions.
Expected Lineups
Fenerbahce:
- Ederson
- Semedo
- Skriniar
- Oosterwolde
- Brown
- Fred
- Asensio
- Nene
- Talisca
- Akturkoglu
- En-Nesyri
Galatasaray:
- Cakir
- Unyay
- Bardakci
- Sanchez
- Karatas
- Torreira
- Gundogan
- Sane
- Sara
- Yilmaz
- Icardi
Prediction
Considering Fenerbahce’s formidable home record and their recent form, the match is likely to be closely contested. A victory could see them leap to the top, while a draw remains a reasonable expectation given Galatasaray’s past performances at Sukru Saracoglu Stadium.
Both teams face significant pressure in this high-stakes derby, setting the stage for an exhilarating match. Fans are eager to see if Fenerbahce can extend their unbeaten streak or if Galatasaray will regain their momentum in the title race.
