Turkey: PonteSud – News Desk
Fenerbahce and Besiktas are entering the final stages of preparation for their upcoming European qualification campaigns.
With key draws concluded or imminent, the path to continental competition is coming into focus.
Following their second-place finish in the Turkish Super Lig, Fenerbahce will enter the UEFA Champions League in the third qualifying round.
The draw for this stage is set for July 21, and expectations are high as the Yellow Canaries look to return to Europe’s top stage.
Their possible opponents include seasoned European sides such as Benfica (Portugal), Club Brugge (Belgium) and Feyenoord (Netherlands).
Another scenario could see Fenerbahçe drawn against the winner of the Rangers (Scotland) vs. Panathinaikos (Greece) clash, both of whom present formidable challenges.
The third qualifying round will be played across two legs, scheduled for August 5-6 and August 12-13. Should Fenerbahce advance, they will still need to pass through one final play-off round to reach the prestigious Champions League group stage.
Besiktas will enter the UEFA Europa League in the second qualifying round. Their opponent will be decided by the outcome of the first-round tie between Shakhtar Donetsk (Ukraine) and Ilves Tampere (Finland).
If Besiktas draws Shakhtar Donetsk in the second qualifying round, the tie would feature a notable reunion with Arda Turan, the experienced Turkish midfielder currently coaching for the Ukrainian club.
Turan, who has a rich history in Turkish football, including time at top Istanbul clubs, would bring extra attention and intensity to the clash, adding a compelling subplot for fans and media alike.
