The UEFA Europa League Round of 16 features an electrifying encounter as Galatasaray vs AZ Alkmaar in Rams Park takes place on February 20, 2025, at 18:45 CET. The Turkish giants will look to take advantage of their home ground in Istanbul, while the Dutch side AZ Alkmaar hopes to secure a strong result in this crucial European clash.
Match Overview: Galatasaray vs AZ Alkmaar in Rams Park
Galatasaray, one of Turkey’s most decorated clubs, faces AZ Alkmaar, a Dutch team known for its attacking football and resilience. Both teams have performed well in their respective domestic leagues and are looking to advance further in the competition. The atmosphere at Rams Park will be electric as Galatasaray seeks to make home advantage count.
Head-to-Head: Galatasaray vs AZ Alkmaar in Rams Park
Galatasaray and AZ Alkmaar have met a few times in European competitions, with both sides sharing victories in past encounters. The most recent matches have shown that AZ Alkmaar can be dangerous, even away from home.
| Competition | Date | Result |
|---|---|---|
| UEFA Cup | 15 Feb 2007 | Galatasaray 2-2 AZ Alkmaar |
| UEFA Cup | 22 Feb 2007 | AZ Alkmaar 2-1 Galatasaray |
Current Form and Team Updates
Galatasaray
Galatasaray has been dominant in the Turkish Super Lig and has translated that form into Europe. Mauro Icardi, their star striker, has been in red-hot form, supported by the creativity of Dries Mertens and Hakim Ziyech. Defensively, Davinson Sánchez and Abdülkerim Bardakcı have formed a strong partnership at the back.
Injury & Suspension Updates:
- Wilfried Zaha – Doubtful (muscle injury)
- Lucas Torreira – Suspended (yellow card accumulation)
- Sérgio Oliveira – Fit and available
AZ Alkmaar
AZ Alkmaar has been impressive in the Eredivisie and will look to bring their attacking philosophy to Turkey. Vangelis Pavlidis is their danger man, having scored crucial goals in Europe. Tijjani Reijnders and Jordy Clasie will control the midfield battle, while Pantelis Hatzidiakos leads the defense.
Injury & Suspension Updates:
- Dani de Wit – Doubtful (ankle injury)
- Bruno Martins Indi – Out (long-term injury)
- Jesper Karlsson – Fully fit and available
Predicted Lineups
Galatasaray Starting XI (4-2-3-1):
- Goalkeeper: Fernando Muslera
- Defenders: Sacha Boey, Davinson Sánchez, Abdülkerim Bardakcı, Angeliño
- Midfielders: Sérgio Oliveira, Kerem Demirbay
- Forwards: Hakim Ziyech, Dries Mertens, Kerem Aktürkoğlu
- Striker: Mauro Icardi
AZ Alkmaar Starting XI (4-3-3):
- Goalkeeper: Mathew Ryan
- Defenders: Yukinari Sugawara, Pantelis Hatzidiakos, Sam Beukema, Milos Kerkez
- Midfielders: Jordy Clasie, Tijjani Reijnders, Dani de Wit
- Forwards: Jesper Karlsson, Vangelis Pavlidis, Myron van Brederode
Match Prediction
With Galatasaray’s dominant home record and AZ Alkmaar’s strong attacking ability, this match promises to be a thrilling encounter. Galatasaray has the edge due to their passionate home support and attacking firepower, but AZ Alkmaar has shown they can upset big teams.
Predicted Score: Galatasaray 2-1 AZ Alkmaar
Key Updates
- Galatasaray remains unbeaten at home in European competitions this season
- AZ Alkmaar has one of the best attacking records in the Eredivisie
- Mauro Icardi vs Pantelis Hatzidiakos will be a crucial battle in attack
- Hakim Ziyech’s playmaking could be the difference for Galatasaray
- Referee for the match: Clément Turpin (France)
FAQs
Q: When and where is the match taking place?
A: The match is scheduled for February 20, 2025, at 18:45 CET at Rams Park, Istanbul, Turkey.
Q: What was the result of their last European encounter?
A: AZ Alkmaar defeated Galatasaray 2-1 in the 2007 UEFA Cup.
Q: Where can I watch the live stream?
A: The match will be broadcast on beIN Sports, CBS Sports, DAZN, and official UEFA streaming platforms.
Q: Who are the top scorers for each team this season?
A: Mauro Icardi leads for Galatasaray, while Vangelis Pavlidis has been AZ Alkmaar’s key goal scorer.
Q: What are the expected weather conditions?
A: The forecast predicts mild weather, around 12°C, with slight chances of rain.
Q: What are Galatasaray’s chances of advancing?
A: Given their home advantage and squad depth, Galatasaray has a strong chance of winning this leg and progressing to the next round.
Quick Facts Table
| Aspect | Details |
| Match Date and Time | February 20, 2025, 18:45 CET |
| Venue | Rams Park, Istanbul, Turkey |
| Last UCL Meeting | AZ Alkmaar 2-1 Galatasaray (22 Feb 2007) |
| Top Scorer (2024/25 UEL) | Mauro Icardi (Galatasaray), Vangelis Pavlidis (AZ) |
| Galatasaray Injuries | Zaha (doubtful), Torreira (suspended) |
| AZ Alkmaar Injuries | Dani de Wit (doubtful), Martins Indi (out) |
| Referee | Clément Turpin (France) |
| Weather Forecast | 12°C, mild with slight rain |
For more details on Galatasaray vs AZ Alkmaar in Rams Park, visit the official Wikipedia page.
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