Victor Osimhen was the notable absentee as Galatasaray are on the brink of Europa League elimination after a terrible defeat to AZ Alkmaar in the Europa League playoff.
A Victor Osimhen-less Galatasaray’s Europa League campaign hangs by a thread after a dismal 4-1 defeat to AZ Alkmaar in the playoff first leg.
The Turkish Super Lig champions were thoroughly outplayed on Thursday night, struggling to contain a rampant AZ side and clearly missed the firepower of suspended Nigerian striker, Osimhen.
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The Lions, who played a portion of the second half with 10 men, were simply no match for the Dutch side, who extended their impressive run in the competition.
New signing Alvaro Morata was unable to ignite the Gala attack, as AZ dominated from start to finish.
Alvaro Morata failed to shine in Osimhen’s absence
Match Highlights
AZ proved too good for Galatasaray.
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Second Half Surge: AZ continued their dominance after the break, with Clasie (57′), six minutes after Galatasaray’s Kaan Ayhan was booked for the second time and dismissed before Moller Wolfe (66′) added the fourth goal to seal a comprehensive victory.
Osimhen’s suspension due to card accumulation proved to be a critical blow for Galatasaray.
His clinical finishing and ability to create opportunities were sorely missed as the Gala attack lacked its usual bite.
No Osimhen, no party for Galatasaray.
Analysis
Galatasaray face a monumental task in the return leg. They will need to address their defensive vulnerabilities and find a way to unlock the AZ defence without their star striker.
AZ Alkmaar, on the other hand, will be confident of finishing the job and securing their place in the round of 16 for the first time in 11 years.
It’s a long road to redemption for Gala
Their impressive attacking display and solid defensive structure make them a formidable opponent.
For Galatasaray, the second leg represents a last chance to salvage their European aspirations and they will be banking on Osimhen to perform miracles.
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