As the Champions League qualifying stages heat up, Fenerbahce and Lille are set to face off in a crucial second-leg match. Lille, having won the first leg 2-1 in France, holds a slight advantage.
However, Fenerbahce, under the guidance of Jose Mourinho, will be pushing for a comeback on home soil. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect.
Current Form
Fenerbahce
Fenerbahce has shown resilience in their recent outings, winning their Super Lig opener and securing a 6-4 aggregate victory over Lugano in the previous qualifying round.
Despite their loss in the first leg against Lille, they bounced back with a 1-0 win over Adana Demirspor, courtesy of a goal from Edin Dzeko.
The Turkish side will rely heavily on their home advantage and experience in European competitions.
Lille
Lille’s narrow victory in the first leg gives them the upper hand, but they know the tie is far from over.
Under new coach Bruno Genesio, Lille has continued to show their strength in European competitions.
Their attacking prowess, led by Jonathan David, will be crucial as they look to secure a spot in the playoffs.
Lille’s defensive unit, bolstered by new signing Thomas Meunier, will also play a vital role in keeping Fenerbahce at bay.
Team News
Fenerbahce
Mourinho is expected to make some changes from the team that played against Adana Demirspor.
Key players like Bright Osayi-Samuel and Alexander Djiku might return to the starting lineup.
Edin Dzeko, who has been in fine form, will lead the attack, supported by Dusan Tadic and Allan Saint-Maximin.
Lille
Despite transfer rumours surrounding Jonathan David, the Canadian striker is set to start.
Edon Zhegrova, who scored the winner in the first leg, may start on the bench but could be a game-changer in the latter stages. Thomas Meunier will be a key figure in defence.
Prediction
This match promises to be a tight affair with both teams having plenty of European experience.
While Fenerbahce are expected to push hard, Lille's counter-attacking threat could prove decisive.
A 2-2 draw seems likely, which would see Lille progress with a 4-3 aggregate win.
Fenerbahçe 
Lille 
