20.02.2025 09:10
The ongoing snowfall in Istanbul may lead to the postponement of the Galatasaray - Alkmaar match. This situation could also affect the Galatasaray - Fenerbahçe derby scheduled for Monday. Galatasaray is set to host the Dutch representative AZ Alkmaar in the UEFA Europa League Round of 16 playoff. However, the snowfall that started yesterday and continues today in Istanbul could jeopardize the match.
The snowfall that has been continuing in Istanbul since yesterday and is expected to last today may cause the Galatasaray - Alkmaar match to be postponed. While efforts are ongoing at Rams Park to ensure the match can be played, the postponement of the Alkmaar match to tomorrow could also affect the Galatasaray - Fenerbahçe derby scheduled for Monday.
Galatasaray will host the Dutch representative AZ Alkmaar this evening in the second match of the UEFA Europa League Round of 16 play-off. After losing the first match 4-1, the yellow-reds aim for a historic comeback to advance, while the snowfall that started yesterday in Istanbul has altered Galatasaray's pre-match plans.
The yellow-red club, wanting to protect the newly laid hybrid grass field in Kemerburgaz, has moved the final tactical training for the AZ Alkmaar match to the Florya Metin Oktay Facilities.
Meanwhile, at RAMS Park, efforts to protect the field as a precaution against snowfall will continue until match time. However, the Altay Snowstorm affecting Istanbul could jeopardize the match's playability.
While heavy snowfall is expected today and tomorrow, the Galatasaray management has taken various measures to ensure the match can be played.
The field will be covered with a tarpaulin. Snow removal vehicles will be on standby at the edge of the field, while heating systems and lights will be kept active continuously.
If the precipitation increases at match time, there is a possibility of the match being postponed.
The AZ Alkmaar team conducted their final training on the artificial turf at the edge of the field.
Meanwhile, the postponement of the Alkmaar match could also affect the Galatasaray - Fenerbahçe derby scheduled to be played in the Süper Lig on February 24, Monday.