Galatasaray remains hopeful: 'Even if our chances are only one percent'

Galatasaray faces an immense challenge as they prepare for the second leg against AZ Alkmaar in the Europa League play-off round.

After suffering a devastating 4-1 defeat in the first leg in the Netherlands, the Turkish giants find themselves in a difficult position, needing a near-perfect performance to keep their European dream alive. While many view the return leg as a mere formality, head coach Okan Buruk refuses to accept defeat before the match is played. He remains adamant that his side will fight until the final whistle, calling upon the club’s proud history of resilience and perseverance in European competitions.

The first leg was a brutal wake-up call for Galatasaray, as they struggled to contain AZ’s attacking play and failed to capitalize on their own opportunities. Defensive errors proved costly, allowing the Dutch side to take full advantage and build a commanding lead in the tie. The result left Galatasaray’s fans and analysts deeply frustrated, as they had expected a much stronger performance from their team, especially given their impressive form in the Turkish Süper Lig. The heavy loss put immense pressure on the squad ahead of the second leg, with many questioning whether they have what it takes to produce a remarkable comeback at home.

Speaking at a press conference in Istanbul ahead of the decisive return match, Buruk and goalkeeper Günay Güvenc addressed the media, sending a clear message that Galatasaray has not given up hope. "This is not just another match," Buruk emphasized. "We are chasing our hope. Success is woven into the history of Galatasaray, and it is in our DNA. We will start with the same courage as in the first match and with the same determination to reach the next round." His words reflect the fighting spirit that has long defined Galatasaray, a club known for defying expectations and rising to the occasion when it matters most.

Buruk acknowledged that the opening phase of the match will be crucial in shaping the outcome. "A strong start can only strengthen that hope. If we get the crowd behind us, we can put real pressure on them. Tomorrow, we need to do what we should have done in the first match. We will try to reach the next round, and we believe it is possible." His comments indicate that Galatasaray will approach the match with an aggressive and attacking mindset, knowing that an early goal could dramatically shift the momentum in their favor.

The home advantage could be a game-changer for Galatasaray, as they will rely on their passionate supporters to create an intimidating atmosphere at RAMS Park. The club’s fanbase is widely regarded as one of the most vocal and dedicated in European football, and their ability to turn the stadium into a cauldron of noise has often played a decisive role in past European nights. The players will be counting on the fans to drive them forward, creating the kind of high-pressure environment that could unsettle AZ and give Galatasaray the belief they need to mount a comeback.

Goalkeeper Günay Güvenc echoed his coach’s sentiments, invoking the club’s anthem as a source of inspiration. "Even if our hope is only one percent, Galatasaray will chase it. No matter how difficult it is, that will always be our motto. We will give everything." His statement underscores the sense of determination within the squad, reinforcing the idea that they are willing to fight against the odds to keep their European campaign alive.

For Galatasaray to overturn the deficit, they will need their star players to deliver outstanding performances. Mauro Icardi will be central to their attacking efforts, as the Argentine striker has consistently proven his ability to perform under pressure. His finishing ability, movement inside the box, and leadership on the pitch will be crucial if Galatasaray is to break down AZ’s defensive setup. Supporting him will be experienced wingers Dries Mertens and Wilfried Zaha, who will need to provide creativity, pace, and precision in the final third. Mertens, in particular, has the experience of playing in high-stakes European matches and could be a decisive figure in orchestrating Galatasaray’s attacking play.

Defensively, Galatasaray must be significantly more disciplined than they were in the first leg. The backline struggled to cope with AZ’s counter-attacking speed, conceding four goals in a match that exposed their vulnerabilities. If they are to have any chance of progressing, they must strike the right balance between defensive solidity and attacking intent. The defensive partnership of Davinson Sánchez and Abdülkerim Bardakcı will need to be at its absolute best, cutting out mistakes and ensuring AZ does not find a way to score an away goal that could all but kill the tie.

Midfield control will also be essential, as Galatasaray will need to dominate possession and dictate the tempo of the game. Lucas Torreira and Sérgio Oliveira are expected to play key roles in breaking up AZ’s attacks while initiating quick transitions into the final third. Their ability to maintain composure under pressure and distribute the ball effectively will be vital in sustaining Galatasaray’s attacking momentum throughout the match.

The importance of set pieces cannot be overlooked either. In matches where goals are needed quickly, corners and free-kicks often become game-changing moments. With players like Mertens and Oliveira capable of delivering dangerous balls into the box, Galatasaray must make the most of every set-piece opportunity.

Despite the enormous challenge ahead, there is precedent for dramatic comebacks in European football. Galatasaray has pulled off remarkable results in the past, and they will take inspiration from their history as they step onto the pitch. If they can score early and unsettle AZ, the tie could take an entirely different direction, forcing the Dutch side into a defensive mindset and allowing Galatasaray to dictate proceedings.

The match against AZ is scheduled for February 20 at 18:45, and it promises to be an electrifying night at RAMS Park. While many have already written Galatasaray off, the team and their fans refuse to accept defeat before the battle has even begun. It will take a monumental effort, but football has shown time and again that miracles are possible.

Galatasaray's fate in the Europa League will be decided in 90 minutes, but one thing is certain they will give everything to make their fans believe in the impossible. Whether they can pull off one of the greatest comebacks in recent club history remains to be seen, but they will fight until the final whistle, determined to prove that their European journey is not over yet.