Turkish giants, Fenerbahce embark on a new chapter under Jose Mourinho as they take on Lugano under the lights at Stockhorn Arena in the second qualifying round of the Champions League this Tuesday. With three qualifying rounds between them and the Champions League group stage, the Yellow Canaries will be eager to make a solid start.
Fenerbahce will come into this game with a spring in their step following an impressive pre-season campaign which saw them bag three wins from five friendlies, including last week’s 5-1 demolition of Hull City at the Sukru Saracoglu Stadium. High-profile new signings Allan Saint-Maximin and Edin Dzeko have further bolstered Fenerbahce’s ranks. Dzeko, in particular, has hit the ground running, scoring twice in their final friendly.
This attacking firepower is set against the backdrop of a Lugano side making their first Champions League appearance since the 2001–02 season, where they fell at the same stage. While the Swiss outfit did finish as runners-up in the Super League last season, defensive issues have been a big problem in recent years. This was evident in their disappointing performance in last season’s Conference League, where they finished bottom of their group.
Ten losses in the league last season further highlight their defensive woes. However, Mattia Croci-Torti’s side have been able to score regularly at home, finding the net at least twice in seven of their last nine matches on their own turf. This includes a 2-1 win over Grasshoppers in their opening league game of the current campaign.
Lugano experienced a mixed pre-season, losing to Italian champions Inter Milan but securing victories against Bellinzona and Parma, which will provide some encouragement as they prepare to take on Fenerbahce.
Betting Tip: Fenerbahce to Win & Over 1.5 Goals (Combo Bet)
23/07 19:30 Lugano – Fenerbahce Fenerbahce to Win & Over 1.5 Goals @ 2.05 (22bet)
Given Fenerbahce’s strong pre-season performance, the quality of their new signings, and the added motivation of a new era under Mourinho, they are our pick to win this encounter.
Moreover, Fenerbahce’s attacking capabilities, highlighted by their recent thrashing of Hull City, suggest that there’s a good chance of multiple goals being scored. Meanwhile, Lugano’s ability to score at home, coupled with their defensive issues, also supports the possibility of a high-scoring encounter.
A combo bet of Fenerbahce to win and Over 1.5 Goals, available at 2.05 odds on 22bet, presents attractive value for this Champions League qualifier.
Lugano vs Fenerbahce - Fenerbahce to Win & Over 1.5 Goals (Combo Bet) @ 2.05
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