Fenerbahçe hosted Benfica in a highly anticipated Champions League play-off clash, marking a return to Kadıköy for Champions League football after 12 long years! The atmosphere was electric as the iconic Champions League anthem echoed around the stadium.
Mourinho's Tactical Choice
Fenerbahçe manager Jose Mourinho opted for a strong lineup, largely mirroring the one that secured a convincing victory against Feyenoord. This indicated Mourinho's confidence in the team's current form and tactical setup. Mert Müldür returned to the starting eleven after recovering from injury, replacing Yusuf Akçiçek.
Key Moments from the First Half
The first half ended in a 0-0 stalemate, but it wasn't without its moments of excitement:
- Benfica threatened early on, with Rios forcing a good save from Fenerbahçe goalkeeper İrfan Can Eğribayat in the 2nd minute.
- Kerem Aktürkoğlu's free-kick in the 29th minute was also well saved by Eğribayat.
- Fenerbahçe responded with a well-worked move in the 34th minute, culminating in a Szymanski shot that was kept out by Benfica's goalkeeper Trubin.
- Just before halftime, Benfica's En-Nesyri headed towards goal, but Trubin was equal to the task.
Fenerbahçe's Starting XI
Fenerbahçe lined up as follows: İrfan Can Eğribayat, Mert Müldür, Milan Skriniar, Jayden Oosterwolde, Nelson Semedo, Fred, Sofyan Amrabat, Archie Brown, Sebastian Szymanski, Jhon Duran, and Youssef En-Nesyri.
The match promises a thrilling second half as both teams seek to gain an advantage in this crucial Champions League play-off tie.