Fenerbahçe return to action in the Turkish Süper Lig this evening, hosting Kocaelispor after starting the season with a postponement and its first league outing ending in a goalless draw at Göztepe. The Yellow-Laciverts aim to pick up their first three points of the campaign and, just ahead of their Benfica rematch, to build some early momentum. The atmosphere at Chobani Stadium is expected to be electric, with tickets selling out quickly and supporters delivering full backing for the team in its first league test there this season.
For the lineup, coach Jose Mourinho will make one change from the side that faced Benfica. With Oosterwolde serving a red-card suspension, Yusuf is set to line up at left center-back, restoring a defensive balance ahead of tonight’s clash.
Outlook: A win would lift Fenerbahçe into a strong position early in the standings and provide a crucial confidence boost ahead of the high-stakes Benfica tie. The home crowd’s enthusiasm could prove a key factor as they look to translate momentum from a solid start into results.
Summary: Fenerbahçe seeks their first win of the season against Kocaelispor at home, buoyed by strong fan support and a tactical reshuffle dictated by Oosterwolde’s suspension, with eyes on a bigger objective in the Benfica rematch.
Positive note: A favorable result here would set a positive tone for the rest of the month and reinforce the team’s belief that they can challenge on multiple fronts.