On Thursday night, Europa League action returns as Turkish champions with Turkish champions Galatasaray facing Premier League side Tottenham Hotspur at Istanbul’s RAMS Park.
Scheduled for 8:45 p.m. local time (6:45 p.m. CET), the Galatasaray vs Tottenham match is not only crucial for both clubs’ hopes of advancing directly from the group stage, but it also marks the first-ever competitive meeting between the two sides.
Galatasaray has been unbeaten in their last 11 matches across all competitions and aims to take advantage of home turf to secure three points and overtake Tottenham in the group standings.
Spurs, meanwhile, are eager to maintain their unbeaten record and solidify their position as one of the competition’s top contenders.
Recent form: Galatasaray’s strong home record against Tottenham’s Europa League dominance
- Galatasaray’s recent form: Galatasaray remains undefeated in the Europa League with two wins and a draw, putting them fifth in the league’s overall standings. Domestically, they have also dominated, topping the Turkish Super Lig and remaining unbeaten in their last 11 matches. At home, they have been particularly strong, notching recent victories over rivals Besiktas (2-1) and Elfsborg (4-3), showing both resilience and scoring ability.
- Tottenham’s recent form: In the Europa League, Tottenham boasts a flawless record with three wins from three, currently second in the standings with nine points. Their European campaign has seen them prevail over teams like AZ Alkmaar and Qarabag, but their domestic results have been more varied, marked by an impressive 4-1 win over Aston Villa and a 2-1 Carabao Cup victory over Manchester City, as well as a 0-1 loss to Crystal Palace on the road.
Predicted starting elevens for Galatasaray vs Tottenham
Both teams face lineup challenges, especially Tottenham, who travel to Istanbul with several injuries affecting key defensive and attacking players.
Here are the anticipated lineups for Galatasaray vs Tottenham based on current form and team news:
- Galatasaray (4-2-3-1):
- Goalkeeper: Muslera
- Defense: Kaan, Sanchez, Abdulkerim, Berkan
- Midfield: Torreira, Sara; Baris, Mertens, Yunus
- Forward: Osimhen
- Tottenham (4-3-3):
- Goalkeeper: Vicar
- Defense: Gray, Dragusin, Davies, Udogie
- Midfield: Bergvall, Bissouma, Maddison
- Forwards: Johnson, Werner, Solanke
These lineups suggest Galatasaray will focus on using Osimhen’s offensive prowess supported by Mertens, Baris, and Yunus in attack, while Tottenham may look to capitalize on Maddison’s playmaking abilities and a forward trio of Johnson, Werner and Solanke.
These lineups suggest that Galatasaray will focus on their offensive strengths, with Mertens and Osimhen as central attacking figures. Tottenham’s lineup reflects some flexibility but also the strain of multiple injuries, particularly in defense.
Key players for Galatasaray vs Tottenham match: Notable players to watch for both teams
- Galatasaray’s key players:
- Victor Osimhen: A critical presence up front, Osimhen’s powerful shots and positioning have been vital. His ability to press high and create chances will be essential for Galatasaray to capitalize on Tottenham’s weakened defense.
- Dries Mertens: As one of the most experienced players, Mertens’ playmaking and vision in midfield can break down defenses, especially when linked up with Osimhen and Akgun.
- Lucas Torreira: A linchpin in midfield, Torreira will look to anchor the team defensively, keeping Tottenham’s Maddison and Bissouma in check.
- Tottenham’s key players:
- James Maddison: As Tottenham’s primary playmaker, Maddison’s creativity and long-range shooting will be essential for Spurs to create opportunities, particularly given their injuries up front.
- Yves Bissouma: Tottenham’s midfield enforcer, Bissouma will be tasked with stifling Galatasaray’s advances and helping transition from defense to attack.
- Dominic Solanke: With Tottenham’s injuries in the forward line, Solanke is expected to lead the attack. His role as a central striker will be pivotal, especially in capitalizing on any defensive lapses by Galatasaray.
Predictions for Galatasaray vs Tottenham: Match analysis and potential scoreline
Given Galatasaray’s impressive home record and Tottenham’s struggle with injuries, the Istanbul side could have a slight advantage, especially if they can press high and disrupt Tottenham’s rhythm early on.
However, Tottenham’s disciplined approach in defense and their midfield strength should make this a competitive match.
- Score prediction for Galatasaray vs Tottenham clash: Galatasaray 2-1 Tottenham. With their fans behind them and the recent return of Muslera in goal, Galatasaray has a strong chance to edge out Spurs in a tight game.
Other important stats for Galatasaray vs Tottenham: Historical context, trends, and team records
- Galatasaray vs English teams: Historically, Galatasaray has faced English clubs 23 times, achieving five wins, nine draws, and nine losses. Notable wins include victories over Arsenal, Leeds United and Manchester United.
- Tottenham's record in Türkiye: Tottenham’s last visit to Türkiye came in the 2014-15 Europa League season when they faced Besiktas, drawing at home and losing in Istanbul. This mixed record against Turkish opposition could be a factor given the hostile atmosphere expected tonight.
- Unbeaten streaks: Both teams come into this match unbeaten in the Europa League, with Tottenham leading the group standings and Galatasaray eager to close the gap. Galatasaray’s last competitive loss came on Aug. 27, adding to their confidence as they aim to extend an 11-match unbeaten streak.
This Galatasaray vs Tottenham Europa League clash promises to be a highly competitive, atmosphere-charged encounter as both teams vie for crucial points in the group stage.
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