Fenerbahce begin their 2026-27 Champions League league phase at home to AS Roma on Thursday, 10 September, with both sides expected to field strong starting line-ups. The match is scheduled to begin at 16:45, and the predicted teams suggest a contest featuring several high-profile players across both squads.
Fenerbahce
Fenerbahce are expected to adopt a powerful-looking formation for their opening European fixture. Ederson is predicted to start in goal, behind a back four of Nelson Semedo, Milan Skriniar, Nathan Ake and Archie Brown.
The midfield is likely to be built around the experience and defensive strength of Matteo Guendouzi and N’Golo Kante. Mason Greenwood, Irfan Can Kahveci and Oguz Ayd?n are expected to operate in support of the main striker, with Vedat Muriqi set to lead the attack.
The predicted Fenerbahce XI is:
Goalkeeper: Ederson
Defenders: Nelson Semedo, Milan Skriniar, Nathan Ake, Archie Brown
Midfielders: Matteo Guendouzi, N’Golo Kante, Mason Greenwood, Irfan Can Kahveci, Oguz Ayd?n
Forward: Vedat Muriqi
That selection would give Fenerbahce a blend of international experience and attacking options as they prepare to open their league-phase campaign in front of their home support. The defensive line includes Skriniar and Ake, while Kante would provide additional protection in midfield.
Roma
Roma are also expected to name a strong side for their first Champions League match of the season. Gian Piero Gasperini is predicted to select Mile Svilar in goal, with a three-man defence consisting of Gianluca Mancini, Evan Ndicka and Mario Hermoso.
Nahuel Molina, Manu Kone, Bryan Cristante and Wesley are expected to form the midfield, providing the balance behind an attacking trio of Paulo Dybala, Rodrigo Mora and Donyell Malen.
The predicted Roma XI is:
Goalkeeper: Mile Svilar
Defenders: Gianluca Mancini, Evan Ndicka, Mario Hermoso
Midfielders: Nahuel Molina, Manu Kone, Bryan Cristante, Wesley
Forwards: Paulo Dybala, Rodrigo Mora, Donyell Malen
Roma’s likely formation places Dybala at the centre of an attacking group that also includes Mora and Malen. The midfield quartet is expected to support both the back three and the front line as Gasperini’s side begin their European campaign away from home.
Fenerbahce will soon play Roma in the opening round of the Champions League league phase. The betting company 1xBet lists Fenerbahce at 3.30 to win, with the draw priced at 3.50 and a Roma victory at 2.10.