Hoffenheim - Besiktas

Can Hoffenheim find defensive stability when they host Besiktas at SNP Arena on 15 October 2026 for this Europa League matchday 2 encounter? The hosts are navigating a difficult patch, having conceded three goals in their recent Bundesliga defeat to Hamburger SV. With Patrick Wimmer sidelined, the expected XI relies on the attacking partnership of Tim Lemperle and Adam Hlozek to provide a spark. Defensively, Koki Machida and Ozan Kabak must tighten their structure to handle the visitors' movement, as the team looks to recover from their opening European loss against OFI Crete.

Besiktas arrive in a more positive frame of mind, buoyed by a 4-1 victory over Marseille in their Europa League opener. Although Vaclav Cerny is out through injury, the expected side features a potent forward line including Dusan Vlahovic and Leandro Trossard. Their recent domestic form remains largely consistent, and they will look to exploit any lingering vulnerabilities in the Hoffenheim backline to maintain their momentum in the competition.