Galatasaray need a win and a prayer
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
Article summary
Galatasaray AS go into their final game in Group H at home against FK Austria Wien knowing that a victory still might not be enough to reach the Round of 32.
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Turkish UEFA Cup contenders Galatasaray AS go into their final game in Group H at home against FK Austria Wien knowing a victory might not be enough to reach the Round of 32.
Win and hope
Having lost to FC Girondins de Bordeaux and Helsingborgs IF in their first two games, they now must hope that Greek side Panionios GSS, who they beat 3-0 away, lose or draw against the already-qualified French side.
Midfielder woe
Besides worrying about other results, the Istanbul club have their own problems. Galatasaray announced this week that Brazilian playmaker Lincoln and Swedish defensive midfielder Tobias Linderoth are both out of action until mid-January with calf problems. With fellow midfielders Ayhan Akman and Okan Buruk both out until next year with long-term injuries, Galatasaray have found themselves short in a crucial position for one of their most important games of the season.
'Win at all costs'
In addition, coach Karl-Heinz Feldkamp might not be able to lead his side because of illness with doctors advising he does not brave the cold weather. Assistant coach Ahmet Akcan said: "We would have liked the power to decide our own fate. But, as it is, we might not have the chance to advance into the next round even with a victory. It’s hard to think of a Galatasaray team who won't be competing in Europe so we will play for a win at all costs." Akcan also sent a message to the club's fans, saying: "We want to see them united in the stands because they are a big factor for us."
Better news
According to Akcan, the biggest mistake his players could make would be to take their opponents too lightly: "We should not underestimate Austria by focusing on their poor results of late. We've studied them and they deserved better out of the games." Some good news for Galatasaray fans finally arrived as midfielder Hasan Şaş and defender Rigobert Song were both included in the squad for the UEFA Cup game despite missing last weekend's match against Sivasspor which Galatasaray won to move top of the Süper Lig.
