The clash between Fenerbahce and Rangers in the Europa League last-16 first leg promises to be an intriguing encounter, taking place at Istanbul's Sukru Saracoglu Stadium. Fenerbahce enters the match with considerable momentum, having gone unbeaten in their last 18 fixtures, including a decisive 3-0 victory over Antalyaspor . Conversely, Rangers are grappling with low morale after suffering a 2-1 defeat at home to Motherwell and are currently under the interim management of Barry Ferguson. This context sets the stage for an intense competition where both teams will seek to assert their dominance on a European level.
Fenerbahce will take on Rangers in the first leg of the Europa League Round-of-16 at the Şükrü Saracoğlu Stadium on Thursday.
Fenerbahce finished 24th in the league stage of the competition, but their recent form has been impressive. The hosts will be confident of extending their 18-game unbeaten run across all competitions.
Rangers have had three defeats in their last five games and are heading into this fixture on the back of a loss against Motherwell. They need a good run of their own, but it will be difficult away from home.
The result left the Gers 16 points behind bitter rivals Celtic in the Scottish Premiership, but they have been much more assured in the Europa League this term. Four wins and two draws helped them finish eighth in the league phase and avoid the play-off round.
Fenerbahce have had the opposite problem this season, impressing in the Super Lig but floundering in Europe. They made the play-offs by the skin of their teeth after finishing 24th, before conquering Anderlecht across two legs. Mourinho, who has admitted he would be open to managing either Celtic or Rangers in the future, will be wanting to continue his excellent European knockout record on Thursday.
Fenerbahce possible starting lineup: Egribayrat; Skriniar, Soyuncu, Akcicek; Muldur, Amrabat, Szymanski, Kostic; Tadic; En-Neysri, Dzeko
Rangers possible starting lineup: Butland; Tavernier, Souttar, Propper, Jefte; Diomande, Raskin; Cerny, Igamane, Hagi; Dessers
Fenerbahce's squad is bolstered by the return of manager Jose Mourinho from suspension; however, they will be without several key players due to injuries and suspensions. Notable absences include Osayi-Samuel and Fred, which could impact their tactical approach . In contrast, Rangers have fewer injury concerns but still face challenges in overcoming their recent poor form. The predicted lineups suggest that both teams will field competitive sides aimed at maximizing their chances of progression in the tournament.
The match is set to be broadcast across various platforms: TNT Sports 2 in the UK, Paramount+ and CBS Sports Network in the US, as well as DAZN Canada . As anticipation builds for this pivotal fixture, fans and analysts alike will closely monitor how each team adapts to its respective challenges on this high-stakes European stage.
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