Fenerbahçe, coached by José Mourinho, thrashed the French team Strasbourg 4-0 this Saturday in Graz, Austria, in what was the Turkish team's fourth preseason match.
Sebastian Szymański opened the scoring in the 5th minute with a precise shot, setting the tone for the match. Dusan Tadic doubled the lead in the 33rd minute with a well-placed effort, followed by Ryan Kent’s strike in the 37th minute. Edin Dzeko capped off the first half with a goal in the 45th minute, sending the Turkish vice-champions into halftime with a commanding lead and the game effectively decided.
Before this victory against the 13th-placed team from last season's Ligue 1, Fenerbahçe had a mixed preseason record. They suffered a narrow 0-1 defeat to Croatia's Hajduk Split, a match where defensive lapses proved costly. This was followed by a 1-1 draw with Austria's Admira, where the team showed resilience but struggled to convert opportunities. However, they bounced back with a 2-1 win over Romania's Petrolul, displaying improved cohesion and attacking prowess.
Mourinho's Fenerbahçe is gearing up for the upcoming season with high expectations, and this comprehensive win over Strasbourg will undoubtedly boost their confidence. The team has been integrating new signings and adjusting tactics, aiming to build on their strong finish last season. The performance against Strasbourg, characterized by clinical finishing and solid defense, suggests they are on the right track. With Mourinho at the helm, Fenerbahçe fans are hopeful for a successful campaign ahead.