Fenerbahçe, led by the famous coach José Mourinho, tried to qualify for the Champions League play-off round but lost their chance after falling to Benfica over two matches.
The tie was decided by a single goal from Turkish player Akturkoglu in the 35th minute. The first leg ended in a goalless draw, while Benfica claimed a 1-0 victory in the return match, securing a place in the group stage.
Portuguese manager Mourinho has overseen eight qualification matches with his team over the past two seasons. In 2024, Fenerbahçe defeated Lugano twice (4-3, 2-1) but later fell to Lille (1-2, 1-1).
This season, the Turkish side first lost 1-2 to Feyenoord in the opening match but came back with a big 5-2 win in the return leg. However, against Benfica, they had no chance and failed to fulfill their Champions League dream.
It should be noted that Mourinho last participated in the Champions League in 2020, when he managed Tottenham, and the team was eliminated in the round of 16.
Champions League. Final qualifying round
Benfica — Fenerbahçe 1:0
August 27, Estádio da Luz
Goal: Akturkoglu (35).
Benfica: Trubin, Dedic, Silva, Otamendi, Dal, Barrenetxea, Rios, Aursnes, Barreiro, Akturkoglu, Pavlidis.
Fenerbahçe: Livakovic, Müldür, Škriniar, Osterwolde, Amrabat, Fred, Semedo, Brown, Szymanski, Talisca, Nesyri.
Bookings: Amrabat (30), Laje (64), Barreiro (69), Talisca (79), Silva (85), Söyüncü (87).
Experts believe the Europa League also provides major opportunities for Fenerbahçe. Fans are eagerly waiting to see how Mourinho performs on the European stage.
Read 'Zamin' on Telegram!
