Danish giants Copenhagen and Turkish titans Galatasaray face a crucial showdown in their closing Champions League Group A fixture. Both teams stand level on five points, knowing that a victory could secure their passage to the knockout stages.
Match Preview
Copenhagen has had a mixed run, securing four points from November matches against Manchester United and Bayern Munich.
Although their goalless draw against Bayern left them in second place due to goal difference, they’ve had a winless domestic streak recently, failing to clinch a spot in the Danish Cup.
Galatasaray, on the other hand, rallied from a 3-1 deficit to secure a crucial 3-3 draw against Manchester United, keeping their destiny in their own hands.
With a superior attacking record but vulnerable defense, they aim to capitalize on Copenhagen’s recent slip-ups.
Both teams have showcased resilience this season, with Copenhagen holding the advantage in their previous encounter, having rallied to a 2-2 draw against Galatasaray.
However, the Turkish side has been in better form, particularly in their domestic league, heading into this vital fixture.
Form Guide
Copenhagen (Champions League): D-D-L-L-W-D
Copenhagen (All Competitions): W-W-D-L-D-L
Galatasaray (Champions League): W-D-W-L-L-D
Galatasaray (All Competitions): L-L-W-D-W-W
Team News
Copenhagen will miss several players due to injuries, including Birger Meling, David Khocholava, William Clem, Noah Sahsah, and Khouma Babacar.
Andreas Cornelius might start in attack, while Viktor Claesson is expected to return to bolster the midfield.
Galatasaray’s Hakim Ziyech might return from a minor injury that kept him out of the recent win against Adana Demirspor. Davinson Sanchez remains sidelined with a hamstring injury.
Possible Lineups
Copenhagen: (4-3-3)
Grabara;
Jelert, Vavro, Boilesen, Diks;
Lerager, Falk, Goncalves;
Bardghji, Claesson, Elyounoussi
Galatasaray: (4-2-3-1)
Muslera;
Boey, Nelsson, Bardakci, Angelino;
Ndombele, Torreira;
Ziyech, Mertens, Akturkoglu;
Icardi
Prediction: Copenhagen 2-3 Galatasaray
Expect an intense battle with both teams vying for a knockout spot. Galatasaray’s attacking prowess and Copenhagen’s recent struggles could see the Turkish side edge this high-stakes encounter, securing their qualification to the next stage in a goal-laden affair.