Galatasaray vs AZ Alkmaar prediction and betting tips on February 20, 2025
Game Prediction
Galatasaray and AZ Alkmaar will face off in the second leg of the Europa League playoff round on February 20, 2025. The Turkish side will be eager to redeem themselves after a heavy defeat in the Netherlands.
Our Prediction for Galatasaray vs AZ Alkmaar
Following a record-breaking slump in 2022, Galatasaray appointed Okan Buruk as head coach. The former player has since led the club to two league titles, and despite a shaky start this season— including a crushing Super Cup loss to rivals Beşiktaş— they are once again leading the Turkish league convincingly. Meanwhile, AZ Alkmaar finished fourth in last season’s Eredivisie, a position they frequently occupy. They are now battling to remain in the top six.
Galatasaray’s summer struggles led to an early Champions League exit, as they lost both legs to Young Boys. However, their Europa League campaign began promisingly with three wins and 10 points from the first four rounds. Unfortunately, their form declined, as they registered three consecutive draws before suffering a final-day defeat to Ajax.
AZ Alkmaar secured their place in the knockout rounds thanks to strong home performances, defeating Elfsborg, Fenerbahçe, and Roma (in January) while drawing against Galatasaray. In contrast, their away form was much weaker— a 2-2 draw with Ludogorets and three defeats.
In the first leg, Galatasaray managed to respond quickly to AZ’s opening goal. However, the Dutch side dominated from that point on, scoring three more times to seal an emphatic 4-1 victory.
Galatasaray vs AZ Alkmaar: Key Statistics and Trends
- Galatasaray is winless in their last five Europa League matches.
- Both teams have scored in all of Galatasaray’s Europa League games this season.
- AZ Alkmaar has lost just once in their last six matches.
- The Dutch side has scored in six consecutive games.
Galatasaray vs AZ Alkmaar: Probable Lineups
Galatasaray (Probable XI): Muslera – Kutlu, Bardakcı, Sánchez, Ayhan – Sarra, Torreira, Yılmaz, Mertens – Osimhen, Morata
AZ Alkmaar (Probable XI): Owusu-Oduro – Mees de Wolf, Alexandre Penetra, Goes, Meijcom – Clasie, Koopmeiners, Lado, Mijnans, Poku – Merdink
Head-to-Head: Galatasaray vs AZ Alkmaar
The first-ever meeting between these two clubs took place in November in the Netherlands.
Free Prediction for Galatasaray vs AZ Alkmaar
Galatasaray may not be able to overturn the deficit completely, but they are expected to secure a home victory under these circumstances. Back Galatasaray to win (Odds – 1.66).
Follow the Europa League standings and analyze your team’s form before placing your next bet.