FC Porto’s Martín Anselmi Debuts Against Maccabi Tel Aviv in Crucial Europa League Clash

PORTO, Portugal — FC Porto‘s new head coach, Martín Anselmi, made his debut on Thursday, leading the team in a decisive Europa League match against Maccabi Tel Aviv. The game, held at 8 p.m. local time, marked the eighth and final round of the group stage, with both teams fighting to keep their European dreams alive.

Anselmi, an Argentine tactician, unveiled his starting lineup for the crucial encounter. The team featured Diogo Costa in goal, with João Mário, Pérez, Tiago Djaló, Otávio, and Francisco Moura in defense. The midfield trio included Alan Varela and Nico, while the attack was led by Mora, Galeno, and Samu.

Porto entered the match in 25th place in the Europa League standings, needing a win to avoid elimination. Under the new tournament format, only the top eight teams advance directly to the round of 16, while teams ranked ninth to 24th compete in a playoff for the remaining spots. Porto’s recent form has been inconsistent, with two wins, one draw, and two losses in their last five European matches.

Maccabi Tel Aviv, on the other hand, faced an uphill battle. The Israeli club, sitting in 29th place with six points, required a victory and a series of favorable results to progress. Their domestic form has been stronger, with the team currently second in the Israeli Premier League, but their European campaign has been disappointing, with only two wins in their last five matches.

“This is a must-win game for us,” Anselmi said in a pre-match press conference. “We know the stakes, and the players are ready to give everything on the pitch.”

Porto’s Brazilian forward Galeno, who has scored 12 goals in 30 appearances this season, is expected to play a pivotal role. Betting odds favor Porto, with Galeno’s chances of scoring at any moment listed at 2.37 by Betano.

Maccabi Tel Aviv’s probable lineup included Sluga in goal, with Asante, Sotjic, Nachmias, and Revivo in defense. The midfield featured Sissolho, Overeem, and Peretz, while Patati, Davida, and Turgeman led the attack under coach Zarko Latezic.

Despite Porto’s recent struggles, the Portuguese side is considered the stronger team on paper. However, Maccabi’s unpredictability and home advantage could make for a tightly contested match.