Galatasaray Crash Out of Europa League Despite Spirited Comeback

In the second leg of the UEFA Europa League Round of 16 on February 20, 2025, Galatasaray hosted AZ Alkmaar at RAMS Park in Istanbul. Despite a spirited effort, the match concluded in a 2-2 draw, resulting in Galatasaray’s elimination with a 6-3 aggregate loss.

First Half:

AZ Alkmaar began assertively, capitalizing on their 4-1 advantage from the first leg. Their persistent attacks bore fruit in the 42nd minute when, during a swift counterattack, Ernest Poku delivered a precise pass from the right wing to Japanese midfielder Satoshi Maikuma. Maikuma’s first-time shot found the net, giving AZ a 1-0 lead.

Second Half:

The Dutch side extended their lead in the 55th minute. Denso Kasius unleashed a powerful long-range shot that beat goalkeeper Günay Güvenç, making it 2-0.

Galatasaray, facing a daunting aggregate deficit, responded swiftly. In the 56th minute, Lucas Torreira sent a well-placed pass into the penalty area, where Victor Osimhen connected with a first-time strike to reduce the margin to 2-1.

Buoyed by the goal, Galatasaray continued to press. Their efforts were rewarded in the 70th minute when Barış Alper Yılmaz delivered a low cross from the left wing to the edge of the box. Roland Sallai met it with a powerful shot, leveling the score at 2-2.

Key Performances:

Despite the draw, AZ Alkmaar’s progression was largely secured by their dominant first-leg performance. Galatasaray’s goalkeeper, Günay Güvenç, stood out with multiple crucial saves, preventing further damage and earning applause from the home fans.

Galatasaray faced this crucial match without several key players, including Álvaro Morata, due to injury. Their absence was felt, as the team struggled to overturn the first-leg deficit.

With this result, AZ Alkmaar advances to the Europa League quarter-finals, while Galatasaray exits the tournament, shifting their focus to domestic competitions.