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Galatasaray knocked out of Europa League after poor performance against AZ Alkmaar

20 February 2025 23:56 (UTC +04:00)

Galatasaray drew 2-2 at home against AZ Alkmaar and bowed out of the Europa League. In the second-leg match of the UEFA Europa League Round of 16, Galatasaray’s weak performance raised question marks ahead of the Turkish team’s crucial match with Fenerbahce on February 24, APA reports citing Türkiye Today.

Galatasaray-Fenerbahce derby is accepted as the most crucial match in Turkish football.

Galatasaray’s 33-year-old goalkeeper Gunay shined with a strong performance as he prevented Galatasaray from being humiliated in home game by thwarting many attempts by AZ Alkmaar. Gunay Guvenc had only played in one game this season.

Galatasaray fans applauded Gunay Guvenc after the game despite their team being outplayed by AZ Alkmaar.

The Dutch side continued their attacks at the early stages of the game and took the lead in the 43rd minute.

In a fast-paced counterattack, Poku received the ball on the right wing and found Maikuma inside the box. The Japanese midfielder struck the ball with a first-time shot, sending it into the net to put the visitors ahead 1-0.

In the 55th minute, AZ Alkmaar doubled their lead. Kasius fired a long-range shot that found the back of the net, making it 2-0.

After the second goal, Turkish team’s head coach begin benching crucial players as his team will face Fenerbahce on February 24.