AZ Alkmaar 4-1 Galatasaray: AZ thrash 10-man visitors to take control of Europa League play-off tie

AZ Alkmaar made significant progress towards securing a place in the UEFA Europa League (UEL) Round of 16 with a commanding 4-1 victory in the first leg of their play-off tie, marking their fourth consecutive win across all competitions.

In their previous league encounter in November, Alkmaar had a rapid start, taking the lead within just two minutes.

Once again, the Dutch team began aggressively, scoring a remarkable goal in the 12th minute when Sven Mijnans executed a perfectly placed free kick from a distance.

The home team maintained their dominance in the early phases, leaving Galatasaray struggling defensively. Ernest Poku found himself in a one-on-one situation but, after evading the goalkeeper, his shot was expertly blocked.

This missed opportunity appeared to be pivotal when the Turkish side countered and equalized.

Alvaro Morata received the ball over the Alkmaar defense, and although his reverse pass was cleared to the edge of the box, Roland Sallai seized the chance to deliver an unstoppable first-time shot into the top corner.

Abdulkerim Bardakci also had a shot saved from a tight angle before the Cheese Heads regained their lead from the penalty spot just before halftime.

After attempting to clear the ball, Baris Alper Yilmaz fouled Seiya Maikuma in the box, allowing Troy Parrott to convert his fourth goal of the UEL campaign.

Okan Buruk would have anticipated a stronger performance from his team in the second half, but his plans were thwarted within six minutes of the restart when Kaan Ayhan received a second yellow card, leaving his side with ten men.

The situation deteriorated further for the Turkish team as Alkmaar extended their lead shortly thereafter.

A period of possession concluded with Jordy Clasie receiving the ball in the box and calmly finishing past Fernando Muslera.

Alkmaar secured their victory in the match at the 66-minute mark, capitalizing on a two-goal lead and a numerical advantage. David Moller Wolfe scored by converting the rebound from a saved shot by Mijnans.

The Dutch team comfortably managed the remainder of the half, preserving their lead as they prepare for the second leg of the tie next week in Istanbul, where Galatasaray has not lost in 15 consecutive home matches across all competitions.

SportsLigue