Galatasaray Istanbul vs. IF Elfsborg: A Match Preview

Two European giants set to face off

Galatasaray Istanbul and IF Elfsborg are two of the most storied clubs in their respective countries. Galatasaray has won the Turkish Super Lig 22 times, while Elfsborg has won the Allsvenskan 11 times.

The two clubs will face off in the UEFA Europa League group stage on Thursday, September 15. Both teams will be looking to get off to a good start in the competition, and a win would be a major boost.

Galatasaray

Galatasaray is the most successful club in Turkish history. The club was founded in 1905 and has won 22 Turkish Super Lig titles, 18 Turkish Cups, and 15 Turkish Super Cups.

Galatasaray is also one of the most successful clubs in European competition. The club has won the UEFA Cup twice, in 1999 and 2000. Galatasaray also reached the final of the European Cup in 1989, but lost to Real Madrid.

IF Elfsborg

IF Elfsborg is one of the most successful clubs in Swedish history. The club was founded in 1904 and has won 11 Allsvenskan titles, 4 Svenska Cupen titles, and 1 Supercupen title.

Elfsborg is not as successful in European competition as Galatasaray, but the club has reached the group stage of the UEFA Europa League twice, in 2012 and 2013.

Head-to-head record

Galatasaray and Elfsborg have never played each other before. This will be the first meeting between the two clubs.

Prediction

Galatasaray is the favorite to win this match. The Turkish club has more experience in European competition and has a better squad on paper. However, Elfsborg is a dangerous team and could cause an upset.