Beşiktaş enters this quarter-final with renewed confidence following their vital Süper Lig win against Galatasaray. Manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer emphasized the team's ongoing development and the importance of demonstrating consistency. He highlighted the decision to start Ersin Destanoğlu as a way to give deserved playing time and underline that every squad member is crucial. Regarding Gabriel Paulista's exclusion from the starting lineup, Solskjaer stated it was a measure to protect the player after his recovery from a long-term injury, expressing confidence in Tayyip Talha Sanuç who starts alongside Emirhan Topçu in central defense.
Göztepe's manager, Stanimir Stoilov, spoke passionately about the club's "European dream," a goal he instilled upon arrival. He praised the unwavering support of the Göztepe fans and stressed that while Beşiktaş is a formidable opponent, his team thrives in challenging matches and will fight hard to progress. Stoilov acknowledged the difference between league and cup ties, stating Göztepe came to play their football and impose their quality on the game.
Starting Lineups:
• Beşiktaş: Ersin Destanoğlu, Jonas Svensson, Tayyip Talha Sanuç, Emirhan Topçu, Arthur Masuaku, Gedson Fernandes, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Ernest Muçi, Milot Rashica, João Mário, Rafa Silva.
• Göztepe: Arda Özçimen, Lasse Nielsen, Koray Günter, Heliton, Louémo Bokele, İsmail Köybaşı, Dennis Souza, Doğan Erdoğan, David Tijanic, Juanfri, Rômulo.