A powerful strike from Roland Sallai enabled Galatasaray to draw level when Sven Mijnans scored an amazing free kick but the Turkish team eventually lost 4-1 after Kaan Ayhan received his red card in the second half.
The match turned again in AZ's favor when they scored additional goals following their penalty kick against Gala before the return fixture this week promises to be a tough challenge for the Turkish team.
The surprising aspect comes from the fact that Okan Buruk maintains hope for an unbelievable comeback because his team has scored three or more goals in six out of their last seven European home matches. The passionate supporter base of Cimbom continues to have strong faith because the team achieved three or more goals in all of their recent Europa League home matches.
In their most recent 21 European competitions Galatasaray have given up one goal at minimum and a new goal this week would permanently eliminate their potential for reaching the Round of 16.
The historic data shows that of 57 teams with a three-goal defeat in the first Europa League elimination match no other team besides Valencia managed progression. During the 2014 campaign Valencia defeated Basel with a score of 5-0 following their previous defeat of 3-0.
The Turkish champions who presently lead their league and lost to an Adana Demirspor protest successfully competed against Caykur Rizespor by normal means in a recent Super Lig fixture.
Victor Osimhen of Rizespor scored two goals in his previous match but now that he has completed his UEFA suspension he will add fresh momentum to the home offense at this Thursday's game.
AZ holds a strong position due to an advantageous score in the aggregate and they proceeded with domestic rest to build their strategy ahead of this decisive tie.
Only Ajax have conceded fewer goals in the Eredivisie this season, but AZ Alkmaar have shown a slightly less resilient side in European competitions so far. Maarten Martens' team found themselves three goals down at halftime in their last away game against Ferencvaros, a league-phase opponent, yet managed to stage a remarkable comeback to win 4-3. This resilience will be crucial as they prepare for their upcoming challenge.
Galatasaray, the top scorers in the 2024-25 Europa League with 20 goals, pose a significant threat. However, AZ Alkmaar are not far behind, sitting third in the scoring rankings with just three fewer goals. This sets the stage for what could potentially be a thrilling and high-scoring encounter between the two sides.
AZ Alkmaar are in strong form heading into this match, having won their last four games across all competitions. This streak includes a victory in the KNVB Beker quarter-finals, as well as 2-0 league wins against Willem II and PEC Zwolle. With such momentum, they will enter what is sure to be a lively and passionate atmosphere, fully believing in their ability to overcome one of the tournament favorites.
