Fenerbahce is set to host Ferencvaros in the Europa League, aiming to extend their impressive unbeaten streak. The Turkish club remains in excellent form, without a loss since late September. A win could elevate them into the top ranks of their league phase.
Match Overview
Fenerbahce began their Europa League campaign with a disappointing 3-1 loss to Dinamo Zagreb. However, under the management of Domenico Tedesco, they have bounced back remarkably, going on a run of 10 consecutive matches without defeat across all competitions. This includes eight wins and two draws, highlighted by a recent 5-2 victory over Caykur Rizespor.
Fenerbahce’s attack has been formidable, scoring at least three goals in four of their last five games. They are currently just one point behind Turkish Super Lig leaders Galatasaray. Their Europa League recovery includes victories over Nice (2-1) and Stuttgart (1-0), and a goalless draw against Viktoria Plzen.
The hosts are looking to break into the top eight of the league standings, sitting just one point behind that threshold. A win against Ferencvaros would not only level their points but also propel them into contention for automatic qualification.
Historical Context
Historically, the teams met once before in the 1971-72 UEFA Cup, where Ferencvaros triumphed 4-2 on aggregate. They will be striving for a similar outcome this time, although they face a formidable opponent.
Ferencvaros’ Current Form
Managed by Robbie Keane, Ferencvaros has enjoyed a strong start in their campaign, gathering 10 points from 12 possible. However, they faced a setback recently, suffering a 3-1 defeat against Nyiregyhaza Spartacus, which ended a four-match winning streak.
They remain three points off the top of the Hungarian league table but have a game in hand. Ferencvaros is eager to prevent consecutive defeats, a situation they haven’t encountered since August.
Team News
Fenerbahce will miss Fred, Ismail Yuksek, and Jayden Oosterwolde due to yellow card suspensions. Their absences pose challenges for Tedesco, especially in midfield. Talisca and Mert Hakan Yandas are in contention to fill the gaps left by the suspended players. Jhon Duran could lead the attack again, although Youssef En-Nesyri’s recent goal may see him return to the starting lineup.
- Fenerbahce Possible Starting XI: Ederson; Semedo, Skriniar, Mercan; Yandas, Asensio; Nene, Talisca, Akturkoglu; En-Nesyri
For Ferencvaros, there are no confirmed absentees, although defender Stefan Gartenmann is a doubt. Ibrahim Cisse must avoid a yellow card to play in the next match against Rangers.
- Ferencvaros Possible Starting XI: Dibusz; Szalai, Raemaekers, Cisse; Makreckis, Levi, Kanichowsky, Toth, Nagy; Pesic, Joseph
Prediction
With Fenerbahce in exceptional form, scoring freely and showcasing a balanced team under Tedesco, they are favored to win this matchup. They have not lost in their last 12 home games (10 wins, 2 draws). The expected score prediction is Fenerbahce 3, Ferencvaros 1.
