Viktoria Plzen vs Fenerbahce: Prediction, Team News, and Lineups
As the 2025-26 Europa League progresses, Viktoria Plzen is set to face Fenerbahce on Thursday night. Both clubs are eager to continue their current winning streaks in the tournament.
Match Preview
Viktoria Plzen started their Europa League campaign with a draw against Ferencvaros and faced a setback in their domestic league. However, they have rebounded impressively, remaining unbeaten in their last seven matches in all competitions (6 wins, 1 draw). This includes significant victories, such as a 3-0 win over Malmo and a 2-1 triumph against Roma.
Currently, Viktoria Plzen is positioned fifth in the league standings. A win in this match would mark their third consecutive Europa League victory, a feat they haven’t achieved since 2017. At home, their form is strong, losing only two of their last 14 home matches in the Europa League (11 wins, 1 draw). However, historical performance shows they have never defeated a Turkish team in UEFA competitions.
Fenerbahce’s Current Form
Fenerbahce, the Turkish giants, have been in great form, remaining unbeaten in their last seven games (6 wins, 1 draw). They had a shaky start to their Europa League campaign with a 3-1 loss against Dinamo Zagreb, but they quickly bounced back with wins over Nice (2-1) and Stuttgart (1-0). Currently, they sit in 14th place in the group standings.
Next, Fenerbahce aims to secure three straight European wins for the first time since 2016. However, their away performance in the Europa League has been inconsistent, with only one win in their last four away games (2 draws, 1 loss).
Team News
Viktoria Plzen will miss several key players due to injuries and illness. Jiri Panos is sidelined due to illness, Jan Kopic has a knee injury, and Matej Vydra is out with an ankle issue. Karel Spacil is doubtful after recently limping off, while Lukas Hejda was not registered for the Europa League squad. In-form forward Prince Kwabena Adu, who has scored in his last three matches, is expected to lead the attack alongside Rafiu Durosinmi.
Fenerbahce also faces challenges with player absences. Irfan Can Kahveci is injured, while Cenk Tosun is suspended. Mert Hakan Yandas is not yet fit to play, but Jhon Duran may earn a start after scoring the decisive goal in their recent league victory over Besiktas.
Possible Lineups
- Viktoria Plzen: Jedlicka; Paluska, Jemelka, Dweh, Spacil; Souare, Cerv, Memic; Ladra; Durosinmi, Adu
- Fenerbahce: Ederson; Semedo, Skriniar, Oosterwolde, Mercan; Alvarez, Yuksek; Nene, Asensio, Akturkoglu; En-Nesyri
Prediction
The clash between Viktoria Plzen and Fenerbahce is expected to be competitive. Both teams are in good form, with Plzen’s solid home advantage against Fenerbahce’s recent momentum. A draw is a likely outcome, with both sides showing the capability to defend their positions effectively.
