Galatasaray vs Club Brugge Predictions

Galatasaray have endured an awful Champions League campaign, only picking up a single point and failing to score a goal. This was compounded by a 6-0 drubbing against Real Madrid three weeks ago, which eliminated them from the competition. The side have managed just six shots on target in their four games so far this season, looking second best against every team they’ve come up against. 

Injuries haven’t helped them, with main striker Radamel Falcao missing part of the campaign, but the fans are still bitterly disappointed with the state of their European challenge and there are increasing calls for head coach Fatih Terim to be relieved of his duties. For now, though, he remains in charge and leads his side into what looks to be the game that decides which of these two teams will finish third and qualify for the Europa League. 

Club Brugge haven’t fared much better in a tough group but a creditable 2-2 draw against Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabau has at least given them some cause for celebration. They’ve averaged two shots on target per game, not much of an improvement on Galatasaray, but hold a small advantage over their opponents coming into the encounter. 

A draw would suit Club Brugge in this game, as it would mean Galatasaray have to claim a victory at Parc de Princes to finish third in the group; they could well look to keep things tight knowing Galatasaray have struggled in front of goal this season. 

Things should be quite reserved by both sides and because of this we’re predicting the 2.5 goal line won’t be beaten. Neither side look potent in attack and, with a place in Europe’s secondary competition up for grabs, we can’t see Brugge letting the game become too open. 

Galatasaray should be a little more expansive as they look for a result and an early goal could see Brugge come out of their defensive set up a bit more. With this in mind, we’re predicting a 1-1 draw, with Club Brugge coming from behind to secure the point that should be enough to earn them a place in the last 32 of the Europa League.