Fenerbahce faces one of the most important matches of the season today in an away game against Antalya. After yesterday’s results, Fenerbahce is now 6 points behind their eternal rival Galatasaray in the league. To avoid the gap widening further, they need to defeat Antalyaspor, coached by their legendary captain Alex, in this away game. For coach Jose Mourinho, today’s match is crucial. A loss or even a draw would result in a 2-3 point drop, and with Fenerbahce having a bye in week 8, the gap with Galatasaray could grow even more.
WHO WILL MOU CHOOSE?
Galatasaray drew with Kasimpasa yesterday, and if they beat Alanyaspor in week 8, when Fenerbahce will not be playing, the gap could extend to 9 points. This is why Mourinho wants to beat Antalya today to minimize the stress of the bye week. After the Union Saint Gilloise match, he immediately resumed training without a break. After making five changes on Thursday, it is unclear what lineup the Portuguese coach will field against Antalyaspor today.
DZEKO OR EN NESYRI?
In Fenerbahce, Mourinho will replace Osayi, who sprained his ankle in the Union match, with Mert Muldur in defense. It’s also uncertain whether Dzeko, with 5 goals and 1 assist in 6 league matches, or En Nesyri will start as the striker. After his strong performance on Thursday, Amrabat is expected to be in the starting lineup. Meanwhile, Fred and Oosterwolde are on the brink of suspension. If they receive a yellow card today, they will miss the game in Samsun.
OSAYI, WHO SPRAINED HIS ANKLE, DID NOT TRAVEL TO ANTALYA
After completing their final training at Samandira, Fenerbahce traveled to Antalya yesterday, leaving 5 players behind. Osayi Samuel, who was sent off with a red card in the Union Saint Gilloise match and sprained his ankle, was not included in the squad. Additionally, Irfan Can Egribayat, Samet Akaydin, Bartug Elmaz, and Ryan Kent remained in Istanbul. New signing Filip Kostic traveled with the team to Antalya.
F.BAHCE LEGEND ALEX FACES HIS FORMER TEAM AS A RIVAL COACH
Alex de Souza, who set numerous records during his time at Fenerbahce from 2004 to 2012, will face his former team as a coach for the first time. In 344 official matches for Fenerbahce, he scored 171 goals and provided 146 assists, contributing directly to 317 goals. The Brazilian enjoyed 3 league titles, 2 Super Cups, and 1 Turkish Cup victory with Fenerbahce, and was twice the top scorer in the Super Lig.
