Tomorrow, Thursday, the Champions League match between Galatasaray Istanbul and Waldstadion marks an important event. Galatasaray, a Turkish club historically supported in Germany, is renowned for its passionate atmosphere and broad support, which promises an electric atmosphere at the stadium. Founded in 1905 by students, the club experienced its first national successes with the championship in 1962, and has since won 25 champion titles, as well as 19 Cups and Super Cups. He is considered Turkey’s most successful club, and has also had notable international successes, notably in the UEFA Cup and the UEFA Super Cup.

Galatasaray has historically competed with Fenerbahçe SK and Beşiktaş JK for supremacy in Turkey. At the turn of the millennium, the club had a significant international success, reaching the quarter finals of the UEFA Cup in 2013. The club has invested massively in new players in recent years, with expenses reaching about 150 million euros during the last mercato. Players such as Victor Osimhen, Wilfred Singo and Mauro Icardi strengthened the team, contributing to a recent Süper Lig lead with five consecutive wins.

Galatasaray’s ambition now extends to the European scene, with prospects for six major leagues in Europe. The current team, led by coach Okan Buruk, has a mix of experienced and talented players including Davinson Sanchez, Ilkay Gündogan and Mauro Icardi. The official meetings between Galatasaray and the German club were limited to the 1992 UEFA Cup, where Galatasaray had won the match in Frankfurt. The expected influx at the stadium will be significant, with a strong presence of Turkish supporters, which promises a difficult challenge for the Waldstadion.