The Europa League returns this week as teams get ready for the play-off rounds. Jose Mourinho aims for an initial win as his Fenerbahce team faces Anderlecht on Thursday.
Nolan James Feb 12
Fenerbahce’s chances in the Europa League rest heavily on the tactical acumen and experience of Jose Mourinho. The Portuguese coach has a proven track record in European competitions, having won this tournament twice—with Porto in 2003 and Manchester United in 2017—alongside a UEFA Europa Conference League title with AS Roma. With five major UEFA trophies to his name, Mourinho remains one of the most decorated managers in European football.
Currently in his second season at the helm, Mourinho has guided Fenerbahce to a strong title challenge in the Turkish Super Lig. They sit three points behind fierce rivals Galatasaray, who also have a game in hand. The squad boasts notable former Premier League players, including Fred (Manchester United), Caglar Soyuncu (Leicester City), and Edin Dzeko (Manchester City), adding top-level experience to their ranks.
In contrast, RSC Anderlecht’s squad lacks the same level of star power. Their most recognizable names include Samuel Edozie and veteran defender Jan Vertonghen, both of whom have Premier League experience. The Belgian side narrowly missed out on an automatic round of 16 spot, finishing just a point outside the top eight. In European competition, they have recorded four wins, two draws, and two losses. Domestically, Anderlecht sit fourth in the Belgian Pro League, trailing leaders Genk by 14 points.
History favors Fenerbahce in this fixture. They are unbeaten in their last four meetings with Anderlecht, with the most recent clash in 2018 ending in a victory for the Turkish side, thanks to goals from Mathieu Valbuena and Michael Frey. Anderlecht have never won away against Fenerbahce, managing just one draw in four attempts.
Mourinho’s team enters this match in excellent form, remaining unbeaten in their last 12 games. Their recent victories include a 2-0 win over Alanyaspor, a dominant 5-0 performance against Erzurumspor, and a 3-2 triumph over Rizespor. They have also won five of their last six home matches in all competitions.
However, their home performances in the Europa League have been inconsistent. They have yet to win in their last three home games, drawing against Lyon (0-0) and Manchester United (1-1), and suffering a 2-0 loss to Athletic Club. Their only home victory in the competition came against Royale Union Saint-Gilloise (2-1).
The Belgian side has won just two of their last five matches in all competitions, though they enter this game on the back of a 2-0 victory over Royal Antwerp, with Kasper Dolberg scoring twice. In the Europa League, however, they have struggled recently, losing back-to-back matches against Hoffenheim (4-3) and Viktoria Plzen (2-0).
Anderlecht’s away record does not inspire confidence, with two defeats in their last three outings, including losses to Viktoria Plzen (2-0) and KAA Gent (1-0). Given Fenerbahce’s strong home performances and superior squad, the Turkish side holds a psychological advantage heading into this clash.
With Mourinho’s team in top form, boasting 12 unbeaten games and three consecutive wins, they are expected to control this fixture. Their attacking prowess has been evident, netting 11 goals in their last three matches. Meanwhile, Anderlecht have failed to win in their last four meetings with Fenerbahce and have struggled on their travels.
Expect goals in this encounter, with over 2.5 goals seen in eight of Fenerbahce’s last ten games. A 3-1 victory for the home side seems the most likely outcome.
