Prediction: Zalgiris vs Galatasaray

Verdict: Away win

Best odds: 3/5

Bookmaker: BetUS

Galatasaray will kick off their Champions League qualification campaign with an away fixture against FK Zalgiris in the second round of qualifiers at Vilniaus LFF stadionas on Tuesday.

Meanwhile, Zalgiris managed to progress to this stage by defeating Struga in the first qualifying round. After a draw in their home leg, they secured a 1-2 away victory in the second leg to advance further in the competition.

Zalgiris

The narrow victory over Struga required late heroics to secure their progress. Despite dominating both legs, their wastefulness in front of goal almost proved costly, and they had to rely on a late own-goal to avoid a penalty shootout.

In the A Lyga, Zalgiris had a successful season last year, winning their third consecutive title with an impressive points total. However, this season has been more challenging for them, facing stiff competition from Panevezys, who are level on points and have two games in hand. Nonetheless, Zalgiris has shown excellent form in their domestic league recently, with a five-match winning streak and a nine-game unbeaten run since May.

As they face a formidable opponent in Galatasaray in the Champions League qualifiers, Zalgiris will need to replicate their recent domestic form and bring their best performance to secure a positive result and keep their Champions League dreams alive.

Team News

Yuri Kendysh has been a key player for FK Zalgiris this season, making significant contributions in midfield. His presence will likely be crucial for the hosts in their Champions League qualifier against Galatasaray. He is expected to continue in the midfield alongside Yukiyoshi Karashima, who scored the opening goal in their recent match against Suduva.

Another important player for Zalgiris is Mathias Oyewusi, who will be eligible for selection in this crucial fixture after serving a suspension in their last match. Oyewusi had to miss the previous game due to picking up four yellow cards in the season. His availability will add firepower to the team’s attacking options and provide an extra dimension to their gameplay.

Galatasaray

Galatasaray had a remarkable turnaround in the 2022/23 season, bouncing back from a disappointing 13th-place finish in the previous campaign to secure their 23rd Super Lig title, finishing eight points ahead of Fenerbahce. They showcased their strength during the 2021-22 Europa League group stages, remaining unbeaten and topping their group with an impressive 12 points.

In the last 16 of the Europa League, Galatasaray faced a tough challenge against Barcelona. Despite holding the Spanish giants to a goalless draw at Camp Nou, they were eliminated from the competition after conceding a late goal in the second leg.

As they prepare for the Champions League qualifiers, Galatasaray’s domestic season is yet to start, with the Super Lig scheduled to kick off in mid-August. They have played some preseason games, but with their best team not fielded in those matches, their results might not fully reflect their actual form.

Under the guidance of manager Okan Buruk, Galatasaray ended the previous season with a strong run of six consecutive wins and five clean sheets. Buruk will be eager to see his team deliver a solid performance in the Champions League qualifiers to secure a favorable result for the second leg and continue their pursuit of European success.

Team News

With Mauro Icardi’s back at Paris Saint-Germain now, Galatasaray will have to rely on other attacking options to fill the void. The responsibility is likely to fall on experienced forward Dries Mertens, who brings a wealth of goal-scoring prowess and creativity to the team. Alongside Mertens, Kerem Akturkoglu and Baris Alper Yilmaz will also be expected to step up and contribute to the team’s attacking play.

Unfortunately, Galatasaray will be without the services of Lucas Torreira. The ex-Arsenal midfielder picked up an injury in a previous match against Hull City and will be sidelined for a few weeks, depriving the team of his defensive abilities and ball-winning skills in the midfield.

Additionally, new signing Cedric Bakambu is not eligible to play for Galatasaray yet, likely due to administrative issues.

Conclusion

The upcoming match against Galatasaray will undoubtedly be a tough challenge for Zalgiris, as they face a club with a rich history and greater experience in European competitions. Having after beating Struga in the previous round, the Lithuanian side will be motivated to put up a strong fight and make an impact in their quest for Champions League qualification.

On the other hand, Galatasaray certainly have the greater quality, and despite playing away from home, Buruk’s team are the favourites to win.

Verdict: Away win

Best odds: 3/5

Bookmaker: BetUS