- Besiktas JK are flying in all competitions (W8) in the last 10 and have won their last 3 games.
- Les Phocéens have won just one and lost two of their last three away games (all-competitions).
- Besiktas JK have won five, drawn zero and lost zero of their last five home games, conceding just twice in that run.
An open fixture at Tupras Stadyumu
Besiktas JK have been going strong in all competitions recently and they're well placed to win this game, although Marseille should have enough structure to ensure a competitive contest if they can ride out Besiktas' first press.
Vincenzo Italiano's men have been fast and furious in their approach to football, playing a high-energy game where they press aggressively, set a high line and move the ball quickly. They've beaten Corum Belediyespor 6-2, Fenerbahce 2-1 away from home and Erzurumspor FK 3-0 in their last 3 and it's difficult to see them not having success in this opener in the UEFA Europa League 2026-2027 league phase.
Les Phocéens have been much more hit-and-miss in all competitions, winning five and losing five of their last ten. They've lost three on the spin after a 3-2 home defeat to Paris FC and a 1-0 away defeat to Stade Rennes FC in Ligue 1 last week. Bruno Genesio has set up his side in a more controlled 4-2-3-1/4-3-3 formation which tries to remain balanced, compact and get wide players to attack when the triggers are right.
Besiktas should edge it
The Black Eagles are a clear 71/100 favourite to win this, with Les Phocéens listed at 33/10 and the draw at 59/20. Over 2.5 goals looks a good price at 11/20, Besiktas will want to play fast and should have the pace to do so, while Marseille will look to play their structured wide game and look to get some numbers forward when they can.
