FCSB vs Fenerbahce: Match Preview, Predictions, Team News, and Lineups
FCSB faces a critical match against Fenerbahce at the Arena Nationala on Thursday. This game is pivotal for FCSB as their hopes of advancing to the Europa League playoffs hinge on a victory. Currently, FCSB sits 29th with six points, just two points away from the last playoff spot. In contrast, Fenerbahce, placed 18th with 11 points, also struggles to make it to the top eight.
Recent Form and Statistics
The recent performances of both teams highlight their current struggles. FCSB recently suffered a heavy 4-1 defeat to Dinamo Zagreb. Additionally, they have lost their last three matches across all competitions. Notably, FCSB has failed to maintain a clean sheet in five of their last six games, conceding at least three goals in several instances. In the past three matches, they scored only twice.
- FCSB’s Last Three Matches:
- Lost to Dinamo Zagreb: 4-1
- Lost to CFR Cluj: 4-1
- Recent league performance: Three losses in a row
Despite their home form being partially favorable, FCSB has only won three times in their last six home fixtures—indicative of their mixed results. On the other hand, Fenerbahce’s recent outings show a potential for improvement.
Fenerbahce’s Recent Performance
Fenerbahce is looking to capitalize on their opportunities for advancement. They recently lost narrowly to Aston Villa, conceding only their second goal in four European matches. Their defense has been impressive, achieving six clean sheets in ten matches across competitions. Before the last two matches, they won seven out of eight games under coach Domenico Tedesco.
- Fenerbahce’s Defensive Record:
- Six clean sheets in ten matches
- Only one or fewer goals scored in three of the last four games
Furthermore, Fenerbahce has maintained an unbeaten streak on the road, with eight wins in their last eleven away games.
Team News and Lineups
FCSB will be without striker Daniel Birligea, who is suspended. Denis Alibec may take his place in the starting lineup. Darius Olaru is expected to support the attack with his creative abilities. The potential lineup for FCSB includes:
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| Goalkeeper | Tarvovanu |
| Defender | Cretu |
| Defender | Lixandru |
| Defender | Dawa |
| Defender | Pantea |
| Midfielder | Chiriches |
| Midfielder | Tanase |
| Midfielder | Cisotti |
| Midfielder | Olaru |
| Forward | Toma |
| Forward | Alibec |
Fenerbahce will also be adjusting their lineup, with potential starts for players like Jhon Duran and Marco Asensio. They will miss Milan Skriniar due to suspension, which could change their defensive structure. Their possible lineup includes:
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| Goalkeeper | Ederson |
| Defender | Semedo |
| Defender | Demir |
| Defender | Oosterwolde |
| Defender | Muldur |
| Midfielder | Fred |
| Midfielder | Alvarez |
| Midfielder | Guendouzi |
| Forward | Asensio |
| Forward | Duran |
| Forward | Akturkoglu |
Match Prediction
FCSB is in a challenging position and has struggled defensively, which may impact their chances against a strong Fenerbahce side. Given their recent form and the absence of key players, the prediction leans toward a Fenerbahce victory. A close scoreline is anticipated, with predictions suggesting a possible result of FCSB 1-2 Fenerbahce.
