Fenerbahce head coach Domenico Tedesco addressed the media following his team’s 1-0 extra-time loss to Konyaspor in the Turkish Cup quarterfinal, discussing the penalty decision, the impact of recent results, and the availability of key players ahead of the Istanbul derby against Galatasaray.
Speaking after the match, Tedesco acknowledged the penalty awarded to Konyaspor, stating that if the VAR deemed it a penalty, his team had to accept the decision. He referenced the late goal conceded against Rizespor as having affected the team’s mentality, emphasizing the need to move forward despite the disappointment.
Regarding the upcoming derby, Tedesco stressed the importance of recovery after playing 120 minutes in the cup match, noting that Fenerbahce had played just one day before Galatasaray but had endured the extra time. He outlined a plan for the team to have a few training sessions before the derby, with a focus on preparing for the high-stakes encounter.
On the availability of midfielder Marco Asensio, Tedesco expressed optimism, confirming that the player would undergo individual training the following day and then join the team for three days of training, making him available for the derby. He highlighted Asensio’s importance to the squad, stating that the team needs him and that he had performed well in big games.
Tedesco also reflected on the team’s performance, stating that while they did not show the desired spirit at the start of the match, they improved as the game progressed, with their best period coming in the first half of extra time, where they created chances but failed to convert them into goals.
The coach concluded by emphasizing the need to focus on the derby, stating that the team would give their best in the match and that they had performed well in big games previously, reinforcing the importance of moving on from the cup exit.
Fenerbahce will now turn their attention to the Istanbul derby against Galatasaray, with the match serving as a crucial test in the Turkish Super Lig title race. The team aims to regroup and prepare adequately for the challenge ahead, relying on the experience of players like Asensio to make an impact.
As the team prepares for the derby, fans and analysts will be watching closely to spot how Fenerbahce responds to the cup disappointment and whether they can channel their energy into a strong performance against their rivals.
