Europa League Clash: AZ Alkmaar vs. Galatasaray – Match Preview, Stats & Prediction

5/5 - (1 vote)

The UEFA Europa League knockout stage is set to deliver another thrilling encounter as AZ Alkmaar hosts Galatasaray in the first leg of their Round of 16 playoff clash on February 13, 2025. With both teams displaying impressive form in their respective domestic leagues and European campaigns, this fixture promises excitement, drama, and plenty of goals.

Match Overview

  • Date: Thursday, February 13, 2025
  • Kickoff: 21:00 CET
  • Venue: AFAS Stadion, Alkmaar, Netherlands

AZ Alkmaar earned their place in the knockout round after finishing 19th in the league phase, securing 11 points from eight matches. They have been in strong form domestically, winning their last three Eredivisie matches, including a solid 2-0 victory over PEC Zwolle. The Dutch side boasts an impressive home record, suffering only two defeats in their last 35 games at AFAS Stadion.

On the other hand, Galatasaray finished 14th in the Europa League league phase, narrowly missing out on automatic qualification to the Round of 16. The Turkish giants have been lethal in front of goal, scoring a tournament-high 19 goals in the group stage, but defensive issues remain a concern. Recent disruptions, including the abandoned league match against Adana Demirspor, might affect their rhythm, though they have secured wins in their last two completed fixtures.

Head-to-Head Record

The two sides met earlier in the competition, playing out a 1-1 draw at AFAS Stadion in November 2024. AZ’s Sven Mijnans opened the scoring before Galatasaray’s Victor Osimhen equalized, setting the stage for another closely contested battle.

Key Players to Watch

AZ Alkmaar

  • Troy Parrott – The Irish forward has been in fine form, leading AZ’s attack with 16 goals this season, including two in his last two Europa League appearances.
  • Sven Mijnans – A crucial playmaker for the Dutch side, Mijnans has been instrumental in midfield and already found the net against Galatasaray earlier in the competition.

Galatasaray

  • Alvaro Morata – The Spanish striker recently joined the squad and made an immediate impact, scoring a penalty on his debut. He is expected to lead the attack in the absence of Osimhen.
  • Kerem Aktürkoğlu – A dynamic winger capable of changing the game with his pace and creativity, Aktürkoğlu will be a key figure in Galatasaray’s attacking setup.

Injury & Suspension News

AZ Alkmaar

  • Out: Ruben van Bommel (injury), Ibrahim Sadiq (injury)
  • Suspended: Kristijan Belic (yellow card accumulation)

Galatasaray

  • Out: Mauro Icardi, Yunus Akgün, Ismail Jakobs (injuries)
  • Suspended: Victor Osimhen, Davinson Sánchez, Lucas Torreira (yellow card accumulation)

Predicted Lineups

AZ Alkmaar (4-2-3-1)

  • Goalkeeper: Owusu-Oduro
  • Defenders: Kasius, Goes, Penetra, Wolfe
  • Midfielders: Clasie, Koopmeiners; Addai, Mijnans, Lahdo
  • Forward: Parrott

Galatasaray (4-2-3-1)

  • Goalkeeper: Muslera
  • Defenders: Ayhan, Cuesta, Bardakci, Kutlu
  • Midfielders: Sara, Demirbay; Sallai, Mertens, Yilmaz
  • Forward: Morata

Match Prediction & Betting Tips

This encounter is expected to be an evenly matched battle, with both teams carrying potent attacking threats. AZ Alkmaar’s home advantage and disciplined approach will be tested by Galatasaray’s firepower. Given both sides’ strengths and weaknesses, a high-scoring draw seems likely.

Predicted Score: AZ Alkmaar 2-2 Galatasaray

Betting Tips:

  • Both Teams to Score: Yes
  • Over 2.5 Goals: Yes
  • Anytime Goalscorer: Alvaro Morata

With plenty on the line, fans can expect an electrifying 90 minutes as these European hopefuls fight for a crucial advantage in the first leg. Will AZ’s home dominance prevail, or will Galatasaray’s attacking prowess shine through? All will be revealed on February 13!