AZ vs Galatasaray Prediction 13 February 2025
🔊 What should we expect from the first leg of this two-legged tie? Certainly, the AZ Alkmaar vs Galatasaray pairing is one of the most intriguing in the Europa League playoffs. But in any case, only one team will advance to the next round. In this situation, we will try to analyze all the strengths and weaknesses of the opponents to provide you with an accurate prediction for the game, which will take place at the "AFAS" stadium.
Head-to-Head
The head-to-head statistics are quite sparse. Throughout history, the teams have only met on the football field once, and that sole encounter took place in the current Europa League campaign. This happened at the end of November (in the 5th round). Back then, AZ Alkmaar and Galatasaray played very interesting football, creating numerous dangerous moments at each other's goals, but they couldn't determine a winner, scoring one goal each (1-1).
Head-to-head statistics AZ - Galatasaray

AZ Alkmaar Team Overview
After a not-so-successful period, AZ Alkmaar has started to regain its former form. The team showed very good football in the last three matches, achieving the desired result in all cases. The Dutch team was impeccable in the game against Zwolle (2-0), which took place last weekend. Maarten Martens' men not only dismantled their opponent's defense in detail but also played reliably at their own goal. Overall, AZ Alkmaar showed good football in the group stage of the Europa League. If the team had defeated Ferencváros (3-4) with the necessary score difference in the final round, they would have directly advanced to the Round of 16 playoffs. Regarding the upcoming match, the coaching staff will not be able to count on 2 players, including Kristian Belic (accumulation of yellow cards).
Match Results: AZ Alkmaar

Galatasaray Istanbul Team Overview
Galatasaray is maintaining a high standard this season. The team is leading the Turkish championship standings, showing good results in the local cup, and has managed to make it to the Europa League playoffs. In fact, the "lions" could have finished the group stage in the top 8, but in the final round, they made a silly mistake in the game against Ajax (1-2). Galatasaray completely outperformed their opponent (2.71-1.44 in xG, 28-12 in shots), but their finishing let them down. Nevertheless, the team can right the wrong by advancing to the next round through the playoffs. However, they will have to work hard in the upcoming clash. Several key starting players, including Lucas Torreira, Davinson Sanchez, and Victor Osimhen, will be unable to participate due to an accumulation of yellow cards.
Match Results: Galatasaray Istanbul
⚽️ Goal Prediction
Like any other top club in the Dutch championship, AZ Alkmaar plays attacking football, which is also effective. This season, the team failed to score against opponents in only 5 cases, and in one game, they even managed to score 9 goals (9-1 against Heerenveen at the beginning of the season). The attacking potential of Galatasaray needs no introduction. The team includes high-class players like Victor Osimhen, Alvaro Morata, Dries Mertens, Mauro Icardi. With such players, the Turkish side simply cannot afford to score few goals. In this situation, you can opt for the option of both teams to score (yes).
🚩 Corner Prediction
Total corners over 9.5 - a good betting option for those who enjoy wagering on various statistical indicators. Thanks to the attacking style of AZ Alkmaar and Galatasaray, they regularly approach the corner flag. The Dutch team earns an average of 5.6 set pieces at opponents' goals, while the Turkish club averages 7.1. For such teams, reaching 10 corners is not a significant challenge.
Editor's Prediction
The bookmakers couldn't determine a favorite for the upcoming clash. Our editorial team, in turn, wants to give preference to the hosts. Firstly, AZ Alkmaar is in excellent form. Over a stretch of 17 matches, the team suffered only 2 defeats, and in most cases, they celebrated victory. Even strong opponents like Roma (1-0), Ajax (2-0; 2-1), and PSV (2-2) have suffered against them. Secondly, in the Europa League group stage, the Dutch club managed to earn 10 out of a possible 12 points at home (3 wins and 1 draw). Only Athletic has better statistics. Additionally, it's important to note that Galatasaray has serious personnel issues. The team was active in the transfer market this winter, but due to UEFA restrictions, they couldn't register everyone. Therefore, the most optimal betting option for us is AZ Alkmaar not to lose. We wouldn't be surprised if the match ends, for example, with a score of 2-1.