Zalgiris take on the visitors Galatasaray in the first leg of UEFA Champions League qualification quarterfinals. The match will be played on Tuesday, July 25th at LFF stadionas (Vilnius).
Zalgiris remain the flagship of Lithuanian football. The Green and Whites have been a symbol of their republic since the Soviet era. Even after gaining independence, they continue to be the favorites, having won the Lithuanian championship 10 times. They secured the title from 2020 to 2022. However, currently, unexpectedly, Panevėžys are persistently holding the top spot in the A Lyga. Nevertheless, the Lithuanians are striving to make their mark in European competitions. In the previous season, the Baltics finally made their debut in the group stage, albeit only in the Conference League, and finished in 4th place. Now, they have started the qualification campaign with a pass from Struga. After a goalless draw at home, they managed a decisive 2-1 victory in North Macedonia, with the opponent scoring first in the 75th minute.
| 2 x £10 Free Bet | Review | |||
| 100$-500$ for No Lose Free Bets | Review | |||
| 100% up to £200 | Review | |||
| Not available | Review |
Galatasaray have finally won the Turkish Super Lig. The Yellow and Reds, despite being an unquestionable local giant, had a disgraceful 12th-place finish in the previous Turkish championship. However, the following season proved to be much better as the Lions became champions, outpacing their nearest rival, neighboring and rival Fenerbahçe, by 8 points. Now, a new cycle begins for Okan Buruk and his team. They are now without Matay and Bafetimbi Gomis, whose contracts expired, but they have secured Mauro Icardi from PSG (although there are concerns about his current situation due to his beloved Wanda Nara's cancer diagnosis). They have also signed Angeliño on loan from RB Leipzig.
Once in 1995, Zalgiris played against Turkish side Trabzonspor, but this will be their first official match in Istanbul. The Turks are considered clear favorites even away from home. However, it's still early in the season. Considering the active playing practice of the Lithuanians, we bet on Zalgiris with a +1 goal handicap.
Prediction for the match: Zalgiris to win with +1.0 handicap.
