LAST 16 HOPES

The Galatasaray manager Fatih Terim is of the opinion that the qualification for the last 16 stage of the Champions League will prove to be the catalyst for the club in their efforts to bring about sustained improvement in all levels. Galatasaray have been showing a lot of resurgence in recent years, which has been the only positive aspect for Turkish football in recent seasons. After getting good results against the likes of Manchester United, Galatasaray have now qualified for the last 16 stage of the European cup. This is something that will boost the fortunes of the club significantly according to the manager.

Galatasaray made it into the last 16 stage following a tough victory over the Portuguese club Braga. They have been one of the consistent performers in the group alongside Manchester United and hence it was not a surprise that they qualified for the knockout stages. Galatasaray were in danger of being knocked out of the competitions as they were trailing the Portuguese club during the break. However, they recorded a stunning comeback in the second half to take all three points, and consequently, their progression to the next stages was sealed. Terim is of the opinion that the team can improve even more when the knockout stages resumes in February.

“I’m very pleased that we completed the job on our own instead of waiting for help elsewhere. Earlier I said ‘we haven’t had our final word, there’s more to come’. You see, Galatasaray still have plenty to say in Europe. It is a long road, but we’ll try anyway. If we encounter a hitch, we’ll try again. With the help of our fans, we can do this. With the prayers and positive energy of our fans, we created a thing of beauty,” said Terim after the Braga match.