AZ Alkmaar took a significant step towards securing a spot in the UEFA Europa League Round of 16 with an emphatic 4-1 victory in the first leg of their play-off clash.
This triumph marked their fourth consecutive win across all competitions, reinforcing their strong form.
When these two teams clashed during the league phase back in November, Alkmaar wasted no time, taking the lead within two minutes. This encounter saw them start just as energetically, with Sven Mijnans delivering a spectacular opener in the 12th minute, a perfectly executed free-kick from long range.
The hosts maintained their grip on the early proceedings, forcing Galatasaray to retreat deep into their half. Ernest Poku nearly extended Alkmaar’s lead after rounding the goalkeeper, only to have his effort brilliantly blocked by a retreating defender.
That missed opportunity seemed like it might haunt the Dutch side as Galatasaray responded with a well-taken equalizer.
Alvaro Morata received a long ball over the top and, after his reverse pass was partially cleared, Roland Sallai pounced, smashing a sublime first-time shot into the top corner.
The visitors grew in confidence, with Abdulkerim Bardakci testing the Alkmaar goalkeeper from a tight angle.
However, the Cheese Heads reclaimed their advantage before halftime. Baris Alper Yilmaz’s attempted clearance brought down Seiya Maikuma in the box, and Troy Parrott confidently converted from the penalty spot, notching his fourth UEL goal of the campaign.
Galatasaray manager Okan Buruk would have sought a stronger response after the break, but his plans quickly unraveled.
Kaan Ayhan received a second yellow card just six minutes into the second half, leaving the Turkish side with 10 men.
Alkmaar took full advantage of their numerical superiority, extending their lead moments later. A well-worked move ended with Jordy Clasie coolly slotting the ball past Fernando Muslera from close range.
The Dutch outfit sealed the victory on 66 minutes when David Moller Wolfe capitalized on a rebound after Sven Mijnans’ shot was parried, tapping home to make it 4-1.
With the win effectively secured, Alkmaar managed the remainder of the game with ease, heading into next week’s second leg in Istanbul with a commanding lead.
However, they will be wary of Galatasaray’s impressive home record, as the Turkish giants remain unbeaten in 15 consecutive matches at home across all competitions.
