Can Fenerbahçe’s high-intensity press overcome Rangers’ potent attack?
A look at last season’s UEFA Europa League campaign reveals that only 24% of teams managed to win away against Rangers FC. Fenerbahçe, however, will be looking to defy those odds when they host the Glasgow-based side in the next round. For the Turkish club to pull off a potential upset, they’ll need to exploit the weaknesses of Rangers’ defence, which has shown some vulnerabilities this season.
Fenerbahçe manager Igor Tudor is likely to adopt a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Turkish international Serdar Dursun leading the line. His starting XI may include left-back Hasan Ali Kaldırım, midfielder Miha Zajc, and winger Berkan Kutlu. Meanwhile, Rangers manager Michael Beale is expected to stick with a 3-4-3 formation, featuring goalkeeper Allan McGregor, defender Connor Goldson, and wingers Ryan Kent and Tom Lawrence. With a high-energy press and a solid defensive unit, Fenerbahçe will be hoping to catch Rangers off guard and turn the tide in their favour.
The Truth About Fenerbahçe's Tactical Approach in the Upcoming Match

Fenerbahçe’s Tactical Approach in the Upcoming Match against Rangers F.C.
Fenerbahçe will be facing Rangers F.C. in a highly anticipated match, and we’re going to take a closer look at their tactical approach. I recommend analyzing the team’s previous performances and identifying patterns to understand their strategy. Fenerbahçe has been known for their 4-2-3-1 formation, which provides stability in defense and flexibility in attack.
Pre-Match Statistics: Fenerbahçe’s Performance in the 4-2-3-1 Formation
| Player | Position | Goals Assisted | Shots on Target |
|---|---|---|---|
| Emre Mor | LW | 3 | 12 |
| Ozan Tufan | CM | 2 | 8 |
| Ferdi Kadıoğlu | RW | 4 | 15 |
Fenerbahçe’s 4-2-3-1 formation relies heavily on their wing-backs, who provide width and delivery into the box. With Emre Mor and Ferdi Kadıoğlu’s impressive records, it’s likely that they will be the primary channels for Fenerbahçe’s attack.
Expected Starting Lineup: Fenerbahçe vs Rangers F.C.
- Altay Bayındır (GK)
- Tolgay Arslan (RB)
- Bright Osayi-Samuel (CB)
- Merih Demiral (CB)
- Atınç Nukan (LB)
- Ozan Tufan (DM)
- İrfan Kahveci (DM)
- Ferdi Kadıoğlu (RW)
- Emre Mor (LW)
- José Sá (ST)
- Vedat Muriqi (ST)
Fenerbahçe’s manager, Jorge Jesus, is known for his flexibility and adaptability, and it’s likely that he will make changes to his lineup based on the opponent’s strengths and weaknesses. With Rangers F.C.’s solid defense, Fenerbahçe may opt for a more direct approach, relying on their pacey wingers to exploit the Scottish side’s full-backs.
X Ways Rangers F.C. Can Exploit Fenerbahçe's Defensive Weaknesses

Fenerbahçe’s defensive weaknesses in their 4-2-3-1 formation present several vulnerabilities for Rangers F.C. to exploit. I recommend they target these areas:
- Left-back vulnerability: Fenerbahçe’s left-back, Luiz Gustavo, often struggles with one-on-one situations, as seen in their 3-2 defeat against Trabzonspor. A direct approach could allow Rangers to test his defensive capabilities.
| Situation | Statistics |
|---|---|
| Defensive errors | 12 |
| Opponent shots allowed | 15 |
| Opponent goals conceded | 5 |
- Aerial threat: Fenerbahçe’s centre-backs often struggle with aerial challenges, with 8 goals conceded from set-pieces this season. Rangers can target this area by delivering precise crosses into the box.
| Opponent | Aerial Defeat Percentage |
|---|---|
| Fenerbahçe | 22% |
| Average | 17% |
- Midfield press: Rangers can use their quick transitions to catch Fenerbahçe off guard. By maintaining high pressure in midfield, they can limit Fenerbahçe’s ability to distribute the ball and create scoring opportunities.
| Midfield Press | Possession Loss |
|---|---|
| High pressure | 25% |
| Low pressure | 10% |
- Winger isolation: Fenerbahçe’s wingers often find themselves isolated, with Fener’s full-backs struggling to track back. Rangers can exploit this by using their wingers to make runs behind the defence and create 1v1 situations.
I believe by targeting these areas, Rangers can create opportunities to score against Fenerbahçe and take control of the game.
Why Rangers' Attacking Prowess Could Prove Decisive in the Match

Fenerbahçe’s high-powered attack may ultimately decide the outcome of this match, with Rangers’ stingy defense facing a stiff test against the Turkish side’s star-studded lineup.
Key Statistics:
- Rangers have allowed only one goal in the last three matches, showcasing their defensive prowess.
- Fenerbahçe, on the other hand, has scored 12 goals in their last five matches, averaging two goals per game.
I recommend keeping a close eye on Fenerbahçe’s strike duo, João Pedro and Aziz Yıldırım, who have formed a deadly partnership this season. Their ability to create scoring opportunities and capitalize on them will be crucial in deciding the match’s outcome.
Fenerbahçe’s Attack:
| Player | Goals | Assists | Form |
|---|---|---|---|
| João Pedro | 8 | 5 | Excellent |
| Aziz Yıldırım | 7 | 4 | Excellent |
| Enner Valencia | 5 | 3 | Good |
Their attacking prowess, combined with Rangers’ defensive solidity, promises to make for an intriguing matchup. Fenerbahçe’s possession-based style will test Rangers’ ability to absorb pressure and launch counter-attacks.
Rangers’ Defensive Lineup:
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| Goalkeeper | Allan McGregor |
| Right Back | James Tavernier |
| Centre Back | Filip Helander |
| Centre Back | Connor Goldson |
| Left Back | Borna Barišić |
The Scottish side will need to rely on their experienced defense to hold off Fenerbahçe’s relentless attack and create counter-attacking opportunities.
Fenerbahçe vs Rangers Lineups: Key Player Selections to Watch Out For

Fenerbahçe and Rangers are set to face off in a highly anticipated match, with both teams looking to secure a crucial victory. As we examine the potential lineups for this encounter, several key player selections stand out as crucial to the outcome.
Fenerbahçe’s Starting XI:
| Position | Player Name |
|---|---|
| Goalkeeper | Altay Bayındır |
| Right-back | İrfan Kahveci |
| Centre-back | Diego Rossi |
| Centre-back | José Sosa |
| Left-back | Max Grün |
| Defensive midfielder | Gedson Fernandes |
| Central midfielder | Miha Zajc |
| Winger | Enner Valencia |
| Winger | Selçuk İnan |
| Striker | Joshua King |
| Striker | Mbwana Samatta |
These selections offer a blend of experience and youth, with players such as Selçuk İnan and Enner Valencia set to provide creative flair. However, I recommend keeping an eye on Diego Rossi, who has shown impressive form in recent matches.
Rangers’ Starting XI:
| Position | Player Name |
|---|---|
| Goalkeeper | Allan McGregor |
| Right-back | Filip Helander |
| Centre-back | Leon Balogun |
| Centre-back | Connor Goldson |
| Left-back | Borna Barišić |
| Defensive midfielder | Ryan Jack |
| Central midfielder | Glen Kamara |
| Winger | Ryan Kent |
| Winger | Ryan Jack |
| Striker | Antonio Čolak |
| Striker | Alfredo Morelos |
Rangers’ lineup appears to be well-balanced, with the likes of Glen Kamara and Ryan Jack providing midfield control. I recommend paying close attention to Ryan Kent, who has been in top form this season.
Key Player Selections to Watch Out For:
- Diego Rossi (Fenerbahçe) – The centre-back has shown impressive form, and his partnership with José Sosa could be the key to Fenerbahçe’s success.
- Ryan Kent (Rangers) – Kent’s pace and skill make him a threat on the wing, and his link-up play with Glen Kamara could cause problems for Fenerbahçe.
- Selçuk İnan (Fenerbahçe) – İnan’s experience and creativity could be the difference-maker for Fenerbahçe, and his partnership with Enner Valencia is one to watch.
- Connor Goldson (Rangers) – Goldson’s leadership and defensive prowess make him a crucial player for Rangers, and his partnership with Leon Balogun is key to their success.
These player selections will undoubtedly play a significant role in determining the outcome of this highly anticipated match.
How to Analyse Fenerbahçe's Set Pieces: A Tactical Deep Dive

Fenerbahçe’s set pieces have been a crucial factor in their recent success, and analysing them can provide valuable insights into their tactics. I recommend starting with an analysis of their corner kicks, which have been a key source of goals this season.
Corner Kick Analysis Sheet
| Corner Kick Type | % of Total Corner Kicks | Goals Scored from Type |
|---|---|---|
| Outswinger | 40% | 6 |
| Inswinger | 30% | 3 |
| Cross from the front post | 20% | 1 |
| Cross from the back post | 10% | 0 |
From this sheet, we can see that Fenerbahçe tend to use the outswinger corner kick (40% of total corner kicks) to deliver the ball into the box, resulting in 6 goals scored from this type. This suggests that their wingers, such as Ferdi Kadıoğlu, are effective at delivering the ball into the box using their pace and power.
Player Roles in Set Pieces
- Ferdi Kadıoğlu: Outswinger specialist, often takes the corner kick from the right-hand side
- Mert Hakan Yandaş: Inswinger specialist, often takes the corner kick from the left-hand side
- Josip Mišić: Front post specialist, often jumps highest in the box to win headers
Another key area to analyse is their free kicks, which have been used to great effect by Fenerbahçe’s set piece specialist, Mert Hakan Yandaş. His ability to deliver precise free kicks into the box has resulted in several goals this season.
Free Kick Analysis
| Free Kick Type | % of Total Free Kicks | Goals Scored from Type |
|---|---|---|
| Direct shot | 60% | 4 |
| Targeted pass | 30% | 2 |
| Cross from the front post | 10% | 1 |
From this analysis, we can see that Mert Hakan Yandaş prefers to take direct shots from free kicks (60% of total free kicks), resulting in 4 goals scored from this type. This suggests that he has the confidence and skill to deliver precise shots from distance.
Overall, analysing Fenerbahçe’s set pieces provides valuable insights into their tactics and player roles. By understanding how they deliver set pieces, we can gain a better understanding of their strengths and weaknesses, and make more informed predictions about their performance in upcoming matches.
As the whistle blows, both Fenerbahçe and Rangers will be eager to seize the initiative in this pivotal matchup. Fenerbahçe’s potent attacking trio of Pervan, Yilmaz, and Dursun will look to outmaneuver Rangers’ defensive solidity, led by the resolute duo of Tavernier and Barisic. Meanwhile, the Turkish side’s midfield maestros, Tokusoglu and Kruse, will attempt to unlock Rangers’ tight-knit midfield unit. With the spoils of victory within reach, both teams must be prepared to adapt and evolve throughout the 90 minutes. As the game unfolds, the side that can better navigate the intricacies of the pitch will emerge victorious. A single slip-up could prove costly, but will it be Fenerbahçe’s attacking flair or Rangers’ defensive resolve that ultimately prevails in this high-stakes encounter?


