St Pat’s target shock win vs Besiktas under Solskjaer as they prepare for a huge European test in the UEFA Conference League. With Turkish giants Besiktas under pressure and led by former Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, there’s growing belief among fans and pundits that St Patrick’s Athletic could pull off an upset. RTÉ soccer analyst Alan Cawley is one of those backing Stephen Kenny’s side to rise to the occasion.
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Momentum from a Narrow Escape
Pat’s are coming off a dramatic comeback win in the second qualifying round against Estonian side Nomme Kalju. An injury-time equaliser from Joe Redmond and an extra-time winner from Jake Mulraney kept their European hopes alive with a 3-2 aggregate result. That victory now sets up a third-round clash with Besiktas—one of Turkey’s most storied clubs, boasting names like Tammy Abraham and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain.
A Familiar Stage for Pat’s
The first leg will be held at Tallaght Stadium, just like last year’s tie against Istanbul Basaksehir. That game ended in a goalless draw at home, followed by a competitive 2-0 defeat away. That European campaign sparked a late-season surge, giving Pat’s a surprise shot at the league title in the final stretch of 2024. Cawley believes something similar could happen again. “Games like this lift players,” he said. “Pat’s won’t be afraid of Besiktas. They’ll be buzzing to test themselves.”
Cautious Optimism from Treacy
However, former Ireland international Keith Treacy urged caution, noting the clear gap in resources and experience. Besiktas have 16 league titles and were Champions League knockout stage contenders just a few years ago. He points out stars like Rafa Silva and Joao Mario as major threats. Still, he acknowledges that Pat’s gave Basaksehir a real test last year, and that experience could give them confidence now.
No Fear, Just Belief
Treacy summed it up well: “Pat’s shouldn’t be afraid. Besiktas are strong, but they’ve also shown vulnerability. This isn’t impossible.” While he doesn’t expect Pat’s to win the tie, he believes they’ll give it everything. That mix of belief and realism could make for a memorable night in Dublin—and maybe even another European twist in Pat’s season.
