Fenerbahçe Coach Kartal: 'We Should Have Scored More Against Gornik Zabrze'

Fenerbahçe secured a crucial 1-0 away victory against Polish side Gornik Zabrze in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League second qualifying round tie, thanks to a spectacular free-kick goal from Anderson Talisca. The win gives the Turkish club a slender advantage heading into the home leg.

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We knew they would play like this, we worked in this direction. But, we could have won by at least 3-4 goals. We deserved it in terms of play.

Despite the narrow margin, head coach İsmail Kartal felt his team deserved a more comfortable win, stating they dominated the match from start to finish. "We knew they would play like this, we worked in this direction. But, we could have won by at least 3-4 goals. We deserved it in terms of play," Kartal told TV100. He noted that two shots hit the post and that Gornik Zabrze had minimal attacking threat, with only two shots on goal throughout the entire match and no corner kicks in the second half.

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These teams are like this. You think there's nothing, you get caught up in the magic of the game and give defensive openings, and they will evaluate them. My players did not give the opponent space. We played disciplined.

Kartal praised his players for their discipline and tactical adherence, emphasizing their patient approach and constant search for openings. "These teams are like this. You think there's nothing, you get caught up in the magic of the game and give defensive openings, and they will evaluate them. My players did not give the opponent space. We played disciplined," he explained. He admitted that the team had expected a more decisive scoreline, "We expected at least 2-0, 3-0. In the end, we won 1-0. I congratulate my players."

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We expected at least 2-0, 3-0. In the end, we won 1-0. I congratulate my players.

The coach also highlighted the magnificent support from Fenerbahçe fans, calling it a testament to the club's stature. Looking ahead, Kartal stressed a match-by-match approach, considering the opponent's strengths and weaknesses. He acknowledged the quality of new signings like Talisca and Asensio but also emphasized the importance of physical readiness and team cohesion. Regarding player fitness, Kartal confirmed that Asensio is nearing 100% but advised him to be patient, while Ake was substituted as a precaution due to a minor discomfort.

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Our fans gave magnificent support. This is the greatness of Fenerbahçe. We will continue to do our best to make our fans happy.