Galatasaray’s UEFA Champions League desires took a success with a 3-2 loss to Young Boys within the first leg of their playoff spherical on Wednesday, leaving their path to Istanbul unsure.
At Bern’s Wankdorf Stadium, the Swiss workforce struck early with Joel Monteiro’s 4th-minute objective and prolonged their lead simply earlier than halftime with one other from Monteiro, placing Galatasaray 2-0 down on the break.
Despite a spirited second-half comeback with Michy Batshuayi scoring twice in fast succession (66th and 72nd minutes), the Turkish aspect fell brief when Filip Ugrinic transformed a penalty within the 86th minute.
The return leg, set for Aug. 27 in Istanbul, presents a frightening problem for Galatasaray.
To advance, they have to win by at the very least two targets in common time. A single-goal victory would ship the match to additional time, whereas a draw or loss would see them drop to the UEFA Europa League.
Belgian ahead Michy Batshuayi made a big influence, scoring each targets within the second half after approaching instead.
This efficiency highlights his integration into the squad, with three targets in 4 official matches up to now.
Suspension and accidents
Galatasaray coach Okan Buruk, serving a two-match suspension from a previous UEFA Europa League incident, watched from the stands.
His assistant, İrfan Saraloğlu, managed the workforce in his absence.
The match additionally noticed defender Abdülkerim Bardakcı despatched off with a second yellow card within the 83rd minute, ruling him out of the second leg.
New faces and challenges
Elias Jelert, new from Copenhagen, made his second look for Galatasaray, changing the suspended Kaan Ayhan.
Despite a promising begin, Galatasaray confronted a setback when their captain, Fernando Muslera, was injured simply earlier than halftime and needed to be substituted.
Young Boys’ squad featured former Turkish league gamers Silvere Ganvoula and Ebrima Colley, who made vital contributions in the course of the match.
Kerem Aktürkoğlu, reflecting on the match, acknowledged Young Boys’ robust efficiency and highlighted the workforce’s dedication for the return leg.
He praised Batshuayi’s swift adaptation and influence, emphasizing the workforce’s must bounce again in Istanbul.
“We didn’t expect this loss, but we know we have another chance in Istanbul. We’ve been here before and will fight to ensure the Champions League is where Galatasaray belongs,” Aktürkoğlu mentioned.
With a difficult environment anticipated at RAMS Park, Aktürkoğlu is assured within the workforce’s capability to show the tie round, bolstered by passionate assist from their followers.
The second leg will probably be essential for Galatasaray, who should capitalize on their dwelling benefit to safe a spot within the Champions League group stage.
Source: www.dailysabah.com