European soccer has rescued dicey home seasons for earlier than. Maybe it nonetheless will in what stays of 2025-26 however as Bruce Springsteen prophesied, you may’t begin a hearth with out a spark. Liverpool are nonetheless on the lookout for that ignition supply after a second 1-0 defeat to Galatasaray in the identical marketing campaign.
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For almost a decade Liverpool have leaned on Mohamed Salah when in want of inspiration, right here he was hopelessly peripheral. He seems solely unable to beat a full-back and it’s putting to see such a potent participant, recent off a spectacular season, wanting so diminished.
In the direction of the top of the primary half, I scanned my notes for Salah’s identify. It appeared as soon as, within the line-ups. Salah had simpler video games when he performed for Chelsea. He was substituted appropriately after an hour for Jeremie Frimpong, signed to play at right-back.
When Arne Slot dropped Salah in November it prompted a diplomatic disaster on Merseyside, culminating in Salah saying . Performances like this are as useful as feedback like these, however he was hardly alone in under-delivering. It was a harrowing night time particularly for Ibrahima Konaté.
Liverpool – and notably centre-back Ibrahima Konaté (centre) – had a night to overlook in Istanbul – Tolga Bozoglu/EPA
Of their first actual assault, Galatasaray gained a nook after Noa Lang requested some light questions of Konaté, who folded like a person below heavy interrogation. From the ensuing supply, Victor Osimhen headed again throughout purpose with Alexis Mac Allister clawing uselessly on the hem of his shirt.
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Mario Lemina headed in and an already boisterous residence crowd turned feral. The boos and the whistles swirl round this hilltop stadium and turn into inescapable, you are feeling they’re someway seeping into your bones. Liverpool didn’t roll over, nor visibly wilt, however performed as if 1-0 was a good first-leg outcome.
The efficiency recommended few classes had been learnt from their within the group section. As soon as once more they appeared unable to match the depth of a uniquely difficult away task. Initially they appeared eager to atone for the defeat in October, urgent early and infrequently.
It unsettled Galatasaray who gave the ball straight to their opponents a number of occasions within the opening 5 minutes. A extra medical staff would have taken benefit of defending which regarded as if it had arrived on mortgage from the Convention League.
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There was a fussiness to Liverpool’s attacking strikes which was ill-suited to the event. Florian Wirtz was ineffective on his return after three video games out, the staff as an entire too tentative with the ball. “Once they get an opportunity they play as if it’s the final probability they may get of their lives,” Slot stated of Galatasaray. “That’s positively one thing we are able to be taught from them.
“We generally get our probabilities and it comes throughout as if we predict we are going to get 10 extra.” One central free-kick within the first half was notably irritating, Mac Allister going quick to Salah in a non-promising crossing place, whose ropey supply was blocked with ease.
It by no means appeared just like the type of recreation to be settled by intricate passing strikes, extra possible a bundle within the field. A nonsensical equaliser from a nook was dominated out for a handball by Konaté, with all 22 gamers too preoccupied with the penalty space Royal Rumble to hassle monitoring the ball because it drifted over the road.
Konaté benefited from VAR on the different finish, when he almost capped his horrible night time by helping a Galatasaray purpose twice in the identical transfer, first giving the ball away with a misjudged back-pass then tripping over his personal toes when making an attempt to clear. Osimhen thrashed it in, however Baris Yilmaz was offside within the build-up.
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Hugo Ekitike had their finest different probability to equalise, beating the Davinson Sánchez we bear in mind from Tottenham, who over-committed for a ball he was by no means going to succeed in. Ekitike skilfully learn his intentions and skipped previous however Ugurcan Cakir saved heroically.
So it’s half-time within the tie and Galatasaray’s followers won’t be travelling to Anfield subsequent week on account of some firework misbehaviour in Turin within the earlier spherical. With their important assist out of the equation, maybe a 1-0 defeat was not such a foul outcome in any case? However Liverpool want to lift their recreation a number of ranges in the event that they want to progress a lot additional. In addition they want one other hero.
08:30pm
Thanks for becoming a member of us
That brings our protection of Liverpool’s defeat in opposition to Galatasaray to an finish. Thanks for becoming a member of us!
08:30pm
Spurs collapsing in Madrid
It has been an entire catastrophe for Spurs within the opening 25 minutes in opposition to Atletico Madrid, 4-0 down already with goalkeeper Kinsky changed after being at fault for 2 of the objectives.
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You may comply with protection of this one .
08:24pm
Liverpool finish run of unpolluted sheets
The defeat sees Liverpool finish their run of three successive clear sheets within the Champions League, having stored out Inter, Marseille and Qarabag of their remaining three league section video games.
08:22pm
The decisive purpose
It was Mario Lemina’s header after seven minutes that proved decisive on this first leg, nodding residence from shut vary after Victor Osimhen rose highest to fulfill the nook supply.
08:14pm
Watch: Galatasaray have fun win
08:10pm
Konate ‘at sixes and sevens’, says McManaman
Former Liverpool midfielder Steve McManaman stated on TNT Sports activities: “I assumed it was a really irritating efficiency. They didn’t do sufficient on the high finish, despite the fact that that they had sufficient probabilities.
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“They usually have been actually weak on the again which I haven’t seen for some time. Something that went into the penalty space, they regarded like they have been going to concede.
“Ibou Konate had an evening he’ll wish to shortly overlook as a result of he checked out sixes and sevens a number of the time.”
08:07pm
Van Dijk on ‘high-pressure ambiance’
Talking at full-time, Virgil van Dijk has informed Uefa: “We created a number of probabilities, however we additionally missed so much. I feel we got here very near scoring within the first half.
“It’s crucial to make the most of these alternatives and convert them into objectives. We performed in opposition to an excellent staff in a high-pressure ambiance.”
08:04pm
Spurs up subsequent for Liverpool
Forward of the second leg, Liverpool will host Spurs within the Premier League on Sunday afternoon, with the north London facet on a five-match shedding streak within the competitors.
07:58pm
Elsewhere this night
Tottenham need to proceed their robust season in Europe away from their home disasters with a .
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Newcastle, in the meantime, are for the second time this season, hoping to enhance on the 2-1 defeat they suffered in September.
Lastly, Bayern Munich are making the journey to Atalanta after ending second within the league section.
07:55pm
Liverpool’s struggles from behind
Liverpool have misplaced 12 video games in all competitions this season through which they’ve conceded the opening purpose; their most since 2015-16.
07:53pm
When is the return leg?
The return leg will happen subsequent Wednesday at Anfield, with the match kicking off at 8pm.
07:51pm
Sport of probabilities
It was an open recreation in Istanbul this night, with each defences wanting weak all through.
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Either side managed 15 makes an attempt, whereas it was Galatasaray who edged the xG numbers (1.44 – 1.28).
07:49pm
Watch: Liverpool’s disallowed purpose
There was loads of confusion round Liverpool’s disallowed purpose, with Konate showing to handball it, however solely earlier than numerous different ricochets.
Nonetheless, it seems the ball struck the defender’s arm a second time, with this contact sending the ball into the again of the online.
The replay from 2 minutes 24 seconds within the video beneath is doubtlessly one of the best angle to point out this.
07:46pm
Watch: Galatasaray’s disallowed purpose
07:45pm
Liverpool battle once more in Istanbul
Liverpool have now failed to attain in 180 minutes of soccer in opposition to Galatasaray this season, having misplaced each video games in Istanbul 1-0.
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Nonetheless, the Turkish facet are famously robust at residence in knockout soccer, and it will likely be a totally totally different ambiance for the Liverpool gamers again at Anfield, notably given there shall be no away followers.
07:40pm
Full time: Galatasaray 1 Liverpool 0
Szoboszlai provides away a foul as he seems to guard the ball, simply placing an arm within the face of his opponent, and he goes into the ebook. He’ll really feel fairly aggrieved by that.
That’s the remaining motion of the night time with Galatasaray taking a 1-0 lead into the second leg at Anfield.
07:37pm
90+3 minutes: Galatasaray 1 Liverpool 0
Osimhen does remarkably effectively to win a free-kick after being penned right into a nook by Gomez and Konate.
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It simply buys his facet some extra time, as will these modifications, with Gundogan and Elmali approaching for Torreira and Yilmaz.
07:35pm
90+1 minutes: Galatasaray 1 Liverpool 0
Gakpo is given area on the sting of the realm and the Dutchman takes intention however he drags his effort a foot extensive of the left put up.
There shall be 4 minutes of stoppage-time for Liverpool to seek out an equaliser.
07:34pm
90 minutes: Galatasaray 1 Liverpool 0
Sanchez goes into the ebook for a problem on Ekitike and the previous Spurs defender will now miss the second leg at Anfield.
Moments later, Yilmaz is at it once more down Galatasaray’s left, getting in behind Gomez, however he simply overruns it and seems to have damage his hamstring within the course of.
07:33pm
89 minutes: Galatasaray 1 Liverpool 0
Gravenberch goes into the ebook for a problem in midfield however the Galatasaray free-kick involves nothing.
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Down the opposite finish, Szoboszlai digs out an exquisite cross in the direction of Ekitike, however the striker’s header goes over the bar.
07:32pm
87 minutes: Galatasaray 1 Liverpool 0
Yilmaz is launched down Galatasaray’s left, in behind Gomez and into the field. He cuts again earlier than taking part in a cute back-heel to the overlapping Sara, however he fires a thunderous effort into the facet netting. Many within the floor thought it was in.
That’s the remaining motion of the midfielder, who’s changed by Boey.
07:29pm
85 minutes: Galatasaray 1 Liverpool 0
It’s one other surprising error from Konate. Yilmaz bursts down the left flank and the defender misses his kick after coming throughout, permitting the ball to run by way of to Osimhen.
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Konate, to his credit score, will get again to make considerably of a problem however Osimhen retrieves the ball immediately and has an effort deflect behind for a nook.
07:26pm
83 minutes: Galatasaray 1 Liverpool 0
With Liverpool’s disallowed purpose, it seems that the ball struck Konate’s arm twice, with the second connection sending the ball into the again of the online.
07:25pm
82 minutes: Galatasaray 1 Liverpool 0
Torreira has a free header from a free-kick however he directs it over the bar and he was effectively offside anyway.
Down the opposite finish and Robertson almost forces an equaliser, along with his cut-back intercepted by Sanchez and despatched goal-bound, however Cakir reacts effectively to make a sensible cease, turning it behind for a nook.
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Gakpo is then penalised on the set-piece.
07:22pm
78 minutes: Galatasaray 1 Liverpool 0
Galatasaray live dangerously now! Szoboszlai sends a free-kick into the realm and Van Dijk competes within the air with Galatasaray keeper Cakir, who can’t declare the ball.
The ball drops to Mac Allister who seems to poke residence, earlier than Sanchez manages to squirm a clearance over the bar, however the whistle is blown for a foul on the keeper by Van Dijk. Very delicate!
There have been modifications for each side, with Gakpo changing Wirtz for Liverpool, whereas Sallai and Akgun have come on for Lemina and Lang.
07:19pm
75 minutes: Galatasaray 1 Liverpool 0
The ball positively struck Konate’s arm, however there have been a couple of extra touches earlier than the ball went into the again of the online.
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Nonetheless, there’s a query over whether or not there was one other handball after Konate’s first. There have been so many our bodies concerned it was unclear what precisely passed off.
07:16pm
Disallowed purpose! Liverpool denied scrappy equaliser by VAR for handball
Galatasaray 1 Liverpool 0 Liverpool assume they’re again on degree phrases, with what seems to be a really scrappy equaliser.
Mac Allister slides Szoboszlai into the left of the realm and the midfielder wins a nook, along with his low ball blocked by Sanchez.
The set-piece is shipped into the center of the six-yard field and it ricochets off three or our bodies earlier than deflecting into the again of the online, with the keeper in no man’s land.
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There’s a VAR test for a Konate handball, and finally the purpose is dominated out!
07:11pm
66 minutes: Galatasaray 1 Liverpool 0
That’s Liverpool’s finest probability of the night time! Ekitike intercepts a cross again to Sanchez and finds himself in on purpose.
The striker drives into the realm earlier than trying to wrap a end residence into the underside left nook however Cakir will get a powerful hand to effort.
07:09pm
64 minutes: Galatasaray 1 Liverpool 0
Konate is as soon as once more, a vastly fortunate man. The defender sweeps up an extended ball however then will get his again cross to Mamardashvili all incorrect, with Lang intercepting it.
The winger dinks an effort over the keeper and whereas it’s going extensive, Konate journeys over the ball as he tries to clear it, permitting Osimhen to faucet residence.
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Nonetheless, the flag goes up, with Yilmaz deemed to have interfered with play because the ball got here excessive.
07:05pm Opinion
61 minutes: Galatasaray 1 Liverpool 0
Half an hour left to do one thing about this match, in a contest which could symbolize Liverpool’s finest probability of silverware this season.
Frimpong and Roberston prepared to return on and must encourage a change of mindset. Slot’s staff taking part in as in the event that they consider a 1-0 defeat is an efficient first leg outcome.
07:04pm
60 minutes: Galatasaray 1 Liverpool 0
Mac Allister wins the ball again from Sara however he’s penalised and he’s livid with the choice, dropping to his knees in despair.
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A few modifications now from Slot, and Salah shall be making method for Frimpong after a extremely quiet night time, whereas Robertson replaces Kerkez, who was on a reserving.
07:03pm
58 minutes: Galatasaray 1 Liverpool 0
Szoboszlai is afforded area on the sting of the Galatasaray space and he tries his luck as soon as once more however his highly effective strike goes simply extensive of the fitting put up, not fairly bending again in sufficient.
07:00pm
56 minutes: Galatasaray 1 Liverpool 0
Yilmaz use his power to spin previous Van Dijk down Galatasaray’s proper and he attracts the foul from the defender, who joins Kerkez within the ebook.
Liverpool head away the preliminary free-kick however Bardakci is fed into the left of the realm within the second section of the assault. The central defender takes intention from a extremely tight angle however his effort crashes into the facet netting on the close to put up.
06:56pm
53 minutes: Galatasaray 1 Liverpool 0
Lang cuts inside and delivers an exquisite inswinging ball into the realm however Mamardashvili stretches out to make a vital punch clear.
06:53pm
48 minutes: Galatasaray 1 Liverpool 0
Liverpool have the throw down their proper and it will likely be Gomez to launch it into the realm. Galatasaray win the preliminary header however the ball drops contained in the field to Mac Allister, who can solely drag his effort extensive of the left put up.
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It’s a giant probability for the Argentine; he shall be vastly disenchanted to haven’t hit the goal there.
06:51pm
46 minutes: Galatasaray 1 Liverpool 0
It’s an excellent begin to the half from Liverpool, passing effectively by way of the strains to seek out Szoboszlai on the sting of the realm.
The midfielder takes intention with a ferocious effort that stings the palms of Cakir however he manages to parry it away to security.
06:49pm
46 minutes: Galatasaray 1 Liverpool 0
We’re again underway in Istanbul, with Liverpool kicking issues off, going from proper to left on this second interval. Can they draw themselves degree forward of the second leg?
There aren’t any modifications from both facet on the break.
06:44pm
Galatasaray on high
Galatasaray have provided the better attacking menace in that opening interval, creating an xG of 1.14 with their 9 makes an attempt, whereas Liverpool’s xG is at the moment 0.43 following the six photographs they managed within the first half.
06:41pm
Disappointing half on milestone night time for Salah
It has been a quiet opening interval for Mohamed Salah, who tonight has turn into Liverpool’s all-time report look maker within the European Cup/Champions League, showing for the 81st time, which sees him overtake Jamie Carragher.
06:38pm Opinion
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Deserved lead for Galatasaray
Angle adjustment required for Liverpool at half time. Not the wrestling transfer popularised by John Cena, though a couple of would condone it for Konate who’s having a stinker.
However it’s a collective failure to rise to the event, an excessive amount of surrendering of area in midfield, too many clever-clever selections in assault and a basic leaden footedness which it looks like this frighteningly loud crowd can sense. Galatasaray are error-prone however vastly extra up for it. They deserve their lead.
06:33pm
Half-time: Galatasaray 1 Liverpool 0
Galatasaray see out added-time and take a 1-0 benefit into the interval. Heaps for Slot to get into on the break.
06:32pm
45+1 minutes: Galatasaray 1 Liverpool 0
There shall be two minutes of added time on the finish of this opening interval.
06:31pm
45 minutes: Galatasaray 1 Liverpool 0
Gravenberch spins splendidly in midfield and pings a through-ball into the trail of Ekitike, who does rather well to tug the ball with him previous a defender, however he’s shrugged barely off stability and loses his footing.
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That was so much higher from the guests, way more purposeful of their advances ahead. If anybody goes to attract them degree, Ekitike has actually regarded the most probably.
06:28pm
43 minutes: Galatasaray 1 Liverpool 0
Ekitike does effectively to latch onto an extended ball ahead and he finally picks out Kerkez arriving on the again put up. The left-back nods the ball again inside however Wirtz’s header harmlessly loops into the arms of Cakir.
Galatasaray shortly break down the opposite finish and Lang earns his facet one other nook as he cuts inside earlier than seeing his low strike deflect behind for a nook.
The hosts as soon as once more have a free header from the set-piece however Liverpool do handle to scramble clear.
06:26pm
40 minutes: Galatasaray 1 Liverpool 0
A mixture-up between Van Dijk and Gravenberch presents Osimhen possession within the Liverpool half however the striker is finally pressured to recycle the ball.
However it’s one other second of hesitancy and shakiness from the guests’ defence; a problem Slot might want to deal with on the break.
06:24pm Opinion
39 minutes: Galatasaray 1 Liverpool 0
First time in a Turkish press field. Some issues you don’t see within the (principally) impartial English equal:
– Limbs. There was bedlam when Galatasaray scored, shouting, hugging, falling over.
– The waving of imaginary playing cards. Appears to do a job, resulted in a yellow for Kerkez simply now.
– Smoking. A lot smoking.
Liverpool are taking part in like plucky underdogs now, solely often seizing management of a chaotic match. Not ok. Salah has been fully peripheral.
06:23pm
37 minutes: Galatasaray 1 Liverpool 0
Osimhen is penalised following Cakir’s punch clear from the nook, so Liverpool could have one other probability to load the field.
They attempt to work the angle with Mac Allister going quick to Salah, however the Egyptian’s cross is blocked and the hosts cope with the scenario.
06:22pm
36 minutes: Galatasaray 1 Liverpool 0
Galatasaray’s free-kick involves nothing, with Mamardashvili simply claiming a header, and the guests break with tempo to earn their first nook of the sport, down their left.
It’s an excellent supply from Szoboszlai however Cakir comes out actually strongly to punch away.
06:21pm
34 minutes: Galatasaray 1 Liverpool 0
Kerkez leaves a late one on Yilmaz, who seems to be in a number of ache on the ground, and the Liverpool left-back turns into the primary participant to enter the ebook.
Replays present the previous Bournemouth man simply stood on the Achilles of his opponent as he pressed him in the direction of the sideline. More than likely unintentional however a really painful one.
06:16pm
30 minutes: Galatasaray 1 Liverpool 0
Konate is a really fortunate man! A cross comes into the field from Singo and the Liverpool defender fully misses his clearance below no stress in any respect.
The ball lands with Osimhen however he snatches at his effort barely, sending it over the bar.
A conflict of heads brings a couple of pause on this opening interval, which Liverpool could effectively be pleased about.
06:14pm
28 minutes: Galatasaray 1 Liverpool 0
Liverpool win a free-kick within the hosts’ half and take the prospect to load the field however Konate’s header from Szoboszlai’s supply is simple pickings for Cakir.
Galatasaray break down their proper by way of Yilmaz and the winger performs a harmful low ball throughout the face of purpose however nobody can get a contact to it.
The Turkish facet preserve the stress on, although, and Jakobs is discovered within the left of the realm however his low ball is turned away by Konate. Liverpool really want to tighten up right here.
06:12pm
25 minutes: Galatasaray 1 Liverpool 0
Galatasaray win one other nook, this time down their left. Sara’s supply picks out Osimhen however he drags his scissor-kick by a lot that it truly goes backwards.
It’s returned to Sara, although, and he delivers one other wonderful ball into the realm, selecting out Sanchez, and the defender produces a robust header in the direction of the underside left nook however Mamardashvili makes one other sensible cease.
Liverpool live dangerously!
06:09pm Opinion
23 minutes: Galatasaray 1 Liverpool 0
Don’t assume you may say Liverpool are taking part in notably badly right here, though they’ve been introduced with the ball by Galatasaray defenders extra ceaselessly than you’d anticipate for a Champions League match.
There was a slight fussiness to their assaults in essential moments, presumably taking part in one cross too many.
Closest they’ve come thus far is Konate leathering it from 25 yards. Extra of that, I reckon, it’s such an open recreation in the intervening time, no must play the odds.
06:09pm
22 minutes: Galatasaray 1 Liverpool 0
Sara bends a nicely-shaped ball with the skin of his left boot in behind the Liverpool defence and Osimhen nearly will get there forward of Mamardashvili however he can solely poke an try extensive.
Moments later and Lang sends a teasing inswinging cross into the six-yard field. It doesn’t get a contact on it however it’s sneaking into the underside nook, requiring Mamardashvili to react effectively and switch it behind for a nook.
The set piece involves nothing this time.
06:05pm
19 minutes: Galatasaray 1 Liverpool 0
Konate pounces on a clearance, chesting the ball into his path, and he decides to take intention from the sting of the realm however his effort whistles over the bar. Not far off from the defender.
06:03pm
17 minutes: Galatasaray 1 Liverpool 0
Konate picks out the run of Ekitike in Liverpool’s proper channel and the striker does effectively to carry it up and win the throw-in.
The guests work the ball properly over to Wirtz within the left of the realm however the German’s first-time end is straight at Cakir.
It was a bobbling cross to him from Mac Allister and it led to a bobbling strike.
06:01pm Opinion
14 minutes: Galatasaray 1 Liverpool 0
Very untidy defending for that nook, Mac Allister nowhere close to Osimhen, and also you’ve obtained to query why one among Liverpool’s shortest gamers is marking Galatasaray’s goal man.
Regarded like an additional misunderstanding between Kerkez and Ekitike on the close to put up which made it even simpler for Lemina. Was not nice defending from Konate to provide away the set piece within the first place.
05:58pm
11 minutes: Galatasaray 1 Liverpool 0
It’s so almost two for the hosts! Jakobs swings a stunning ball into the realm from the left and Osimhen rises highest however he can solely ship his header simply extensive of the fitting put up.
Galatasaray are inflicting Liverpool issues down that left flank, with Lang having fun with a vivid begin to the sport.
05:54pm
GOAL! Lemina opens the scoring in opposition to run of play
Galatasaray 1 Liverpool 0 (Lemina) Galatasaray have been so poor within the opening couple of minutes however they’ve the lead!
With their first assault of the match, they win a nook down their left. The set piece picks out Osimhen, who nods it again goal-bound, and Lemina is there to go residence from shut vary.
Slot shall be so annoyed to concede from a set-piece after an excellent begin from his facet.
05:53pm
6 minutes: Galatasaray 0 Liverpool 0
Galatasaray setting their stall out with the banners, though there’s a nicer one behind the purpose.
Galatasaray supporters show a banner earlier than kick-off – Thom Gibbs
Galatasaray supporters show a banner earlier than kick-off – Thom Gibbs
05:51pm
5 minutes: Galatasaray 0 Liverpool 0
Galatasaray have given the ball away of their defensive third three or 4 occasions in these opening couple of minutes. This time it drops to Szoboszlai within the field however he can’t fairly can a clear shot away.
Slot shall be determined for his facet to capitalise on this sloppy begin from the hosts.
05:49pm
2 minutes: Galatasaray 0 Liverpool 0
Salah is present in a harmful place in the fitting of the Galatasaray field and he seems to twist and switch previous his man however finally provides away the goal-kick.
Simply moments later and Wirtz has an ideal probability to open the scoring. Lemina performs a sloppy cross to the German on the sting of the realm because the hosts look to play out however the Liverpool man can solely fireplace his first-time effort extensive of the mark.
05:46pm
1 min: Galatasaray 0 Liverpool 0
We’re underway in Istanbul, with Galatasaray kicking issues off, going from proper to left on this opening interval.
There’s a deafening noise inside Rams Park! Can Liverpool address the hostile ambiance?
05:42pm
Kick-off approaching
The gamers are gathering within the tunnel at Rams Park and we’re simply a few moments away from this final 16 conflict getting up and operating!
05:40pm
Last preparations
We’re simply 5 minutes away from kick-off in Istanbul…
Florian Wirtz of Liverpool excessive fives teammate Milos Kerkez – Ahmad Mora/Getty Pictures
Liverpool’s Hugo Ekitike juggles the ball in the course of the warm-up – Emrah Gurel/AP
05:36pm
Hostile ambiance for Liverpool
Rams Park discovering its well-known voice a bit now with kick off quarter-hour away. The whistling therapy has begun with feeling as Liverpool gamers go away the pitch and their followers try to begin some songs of their very own, excessive in a fenced-off nook to my proper.
Good of Galatasaray to pay tribute to Derby with the sponsored identify of their floor, isn’t it? Maybe County can return the favour by renaming their stadium Pide Park.
05:33pm
Szoboszlai influential for Liverpool
Regardless of Dominik Szoboszlai being deployed in numerous positions this season, together with right-back, he has been very efficient going ahead within the Champions League this season.
He has been straight concerned in eight objectives within the competitors this time period (4 objectives, 4 assists), greater than another Liverpool participant.
The one central midfielder with extra in a single version for the Merseyside membership is Steven Gerrard, who notched 10 in 2007-08.
05:30pm
Watch: Slot’s pre-match ideas
05:28pm
Have your say
05:24pm
Liverpool on the tough facet of the draw
Victory for Liverpool on this final 16 tie will see them face both Chelsea or defending champions Paris Saint-Germain within the quarter-finals.
Development into the semi-finals might then see them tackle Actual Madrid, Bayern Munich or Manchester Metropolis.
All 5 of these potential opponents talked about have gained the Champions League this decade, whereas on the opposite facet of the draw, solely Barcelona have gained the competitors.
05:21pm
Szoboszlai continues to be Liverpool’s ‘utility man’
Dominik Szoboszlai’s one-man mission to revive the idea of a “utility man” continues. The Uefa line-ups, full with formation, have him on the left of Liverpool’s three attacking midfielders behind Ekitikie.
Szoboszlai performed in defence when Liverpool got here right here in October, albeit not notably effectively, he gave away a penalty which become the sport’s solely purpose.
Dominik Szoboszlai in coaching on Monday – Peter Powell/Getty Pictures
05:16pm
Liverpool aiming to finish absence from final eight
Liverpool are hoping to advance into the quarter-finals of the Champions League for the primary time because the 2021-22 marketing campaign, after they reached the ultimate.
They have been knocked out by Actual Madrid within the final 16 in 2022-23, didn’t qualify for the match a yr later, and have been overwhelmed by Paris Saint-Germain on penalties at this stage final season.
Liverpool had their hearts damaged on penalties in opposition to Paris Saint-Germain final season – Oli Scarff/Getty Pictures
05:12pm
Galatasaray robust at residence
Galatasaray have solely misplaced two of their 22 residence matches within the knockout phases of the European Cup/UEFA Champions League (W13 D7).
The Turkish facet are unbeaten of their final 10 (W6 D4) since a defeat to Atlético Madrid within the first spherical in October 1973.
They obtained off to a flying begin on residence soil in opposition to Juventus within the play-off spherical, profitable 5-2 at Rams Park.
05:08pm
Galatasaray followers banned from second leg
There shall be no Galatasaray supporters within the Anfield away finish for the second leg after the Turkish facet have been sanctioned by Uefa over their behaviour in Turin final month.
The European governing physique acted after the “throwing of objects, lighting of fireworks and crowd disturbances” in the course of the 3-2 defeat at Juventus within the second leg of the play-off tie.
The Turkish champions have additionally been fined €40,000 (£34,700), however stated they’d attraction the choice.
Galatasaray’s followers mild flares in Turin – Isabella Bonotto/Getty Pictures
05:04pm
Galatasaray bringing ‘a number of offensive menace and tempo’, says Slot
Requested about Galatasaray’s strike-force this week, Slot stated: “Osimhen is a superb striker, can rating in a number of methods however they’ve so much.
“Yilmaz was too quick for us twice within the first half, so a number of offensive menace and tempo. We want to concentrate on that and we shall be.”
On the Turkish staff on the whole, the Liverpool boss stated: “We’ve already misplaced to Galatasaray in order that tells you numerous.
“Now, the great factor is we’ve got skilled this as soon as already. That helps. For us, it was new.
“The whistling is so loud when we’ve got the ball. We don’t simply play the followers, we play 11 good gamers.”
Arne Slot is already conscious of the menace posed by Galatasaray – Nick Potts/PA
05:00pm
The dangerman for Galatasaray
Victor Osimhen, who scored the winner when Galatasaray beat Liverpool in September, is in sensational type for the Turkish facet.
The striker has scored six objectives and registered six assists in his final 9 matches in all competitions, discovering the again of the online in every of his final three.
His contributions have been essential, notably in current weeks, scoring the one purpose within the away win in opposition to Besiktas on the weekend and the decisive purpose in extra-time of the play-off tie in opposition to Juventus.
He has scored seven objectives on this season’s Champions League, with solely Kylian Mbappe (13), Anthony Gordon (10) and Harry Kane (8) scoring extra.
In the meantime, solely Burak Yilmaz has scored extra for a Turkish facet in a single Champions League marketing campaign, netting eight occasions for Galatasaray in 2012-13.
Victor Osimhen nets the decisive purpose in opposition to Juventus – Alessandro Di Marco/Shutterstock
04:56pm
Wirtz again in from the beginning
Liverpool are boosted this night by the return of Wirtz into the beginning line-up.
The German playmaker got here off the bench in Friday’s win over Wolves after lacking three video games with a again harm.
The 22-year-old had made a quick begin tp 2026, with seven purpose involvements from 12 video games in all competitions.
04:51pm
Liverpool’s absentees – Alisson injured, Chiesa unwell
Slot stated on Monday that “Federico [Chiesa] felt unwell” on Sunday night time, confirming that was the explanation he was not in coaching.
The Liverpool boss added: “Alisson was within the session however he felt one thing in the direction of the top of the session. Individuals checked out it and he determined and we determined it wasn’t ok to journey.
“There’s positively an opportunity for Sunday. It’s not a giant factor however an excessive amount of for tomorrow.”
Alisson misses out on the journey to Istanbul with an harm – Getty Pictures /Michael Regan
04:47pm
These groups in full
Galatasaray: Cakir; Singo, Sanchez, Bardacki, Jakobs; Torreira, Lemina; Lang, Sara, Yilmaz; Osimhen.
Subs: Akgun, Asprilla, Ayhan, Boey, Elmali, Gundogan, Guvenc, Icardi, Kutucu, Sane, Sen, Salllai.
Liverpool: Mamardhasvili; Gomez, Konate, Van Dijk, Kerkez; Gravenberch, Mac Allister; Salah, Szoboszlai, Wirtz; Ekitike.
Subs: Gakpo, Frimpong, Misciur, Robertson, Jones, Morrison, Nallo, Nyoni, Ngumoha, Woodman.
04:44pm
Galatasaray staff information – Sane drops to bench
Buruk has made two modifications following Galatasaray’s win over rivals Besiktas on Saturday, bringing in Lang and Singo for Sane and Sallai.
04:40pm
Liverpool staff information – Wirtz begins, Alisson out injured
Slot has made 5 modifications to his Liverpool staff following their FA Cup win over Wolves, bringing in Mamardashvili, Konate, Kerkez, Wirtz and Ekitike to switch Alisson, who’s out injured, Jones, Robertson, Ngumoha and Gakpo.
04:36pm
Liverpool’s poor report in opposition to Galatasaray
There’s a countdown clock to kick-off on the large screens right here, I took my seat when there have been nonetheless two and a half hours remaining on it. It has principally been moody home music till a number of the residence staff’s gamers emerged for a walkabout. Large whistles for Liverpool’s, in fact.
Liverpool have a surprisingly poor report in opposition to Galatasaray, only one win in six earlier video games to Galatasaray’s three. Two attracts, in case you’re actually battling maths on the finish of a busy workday. In reality within the final 9 visits right here by English golf equipment in all European competitors Galatasaray have solely misplaced one, to Arsenal 12 years in the past. They’ve gained 5. Good job lots of Liverpool’s followers contemplate themselves Scouse, not English.
04:31pm
Slot focusing on Liverpool report
Arne Slot will take cost of his one hundredth Liverpool match this night, when his facet return to Galatasaray. Liverpool have already confronted the Turkish Tremendous Lig leaders on this season’s Champions League, shedding 1-0 within the group section. A win for Slot this time would put him previous Kenny Dalglish for many victories for a Liverpool supervisor from their first 100 matches.
Dalglish registered 62 in his first century of video games within the Liverpool dugout. Slot reached that complete with an FA Cup win at Wolves on Friday, so another in Turkey would give him sole possession of one of the best report ever for a Liverpool supervisor after 100 matches.
“It makes me actually proud that I turned Liverpool supervisor and that it’s going to be my one hundredth recreation,” stated Slot. “I don’t assume I’ve a foul observe report, though generally you get a special feeling about that if it’s important to hearken to the whole lot.
“However, as ever, it’s by no means concerning the supervisor, it’s concerning the gamers. I attempt to put together them in addition to the 99 video games earlier than, however it’s the gamers who should carry out.
“I’ve been fortunate I’ve been given an excellent staff final season and this season and I’ve all of the belief that these gamers will carry out on the ranges they’re used to of a Liverpool staff.”
Slot additionally stated Liverpool are braced for the same old intimidating ambiance at Rams Park, not the previous Ali Sami Yen “welcome to hell” stadium, however equally eager on booing opposition possession at terrifying quantity.
“These followers listed here are very spectacular, the great factor is we’ve got skilled it as soon as. The whistling was so loud and it was new for me, and even my skilled gamers.”
Arne Slot is about take cost of his one hundredth Liverpool recreation – Yasin Akgul/Getty Pictures
04:28pm
Liverpool search revenge in opposition to Galatasaray in final 16 first leg
Good afternoon and welcome to dwell protection of Galatasaray vs Liverpool from the Uefa Champions League because the groups meet in Istanbul for the second time this season for the primary leg of their final 16 tie.
The Turkish champions claimed a 1-0 victory over Arne Slot’s facet within the league section in September due to Victor Osimhen’s penalty after 16 minutes. The defeat got here throughout a tricky spell for the Premier League champions, through which they misplaced six occasions in seven video games in all competitions.
Nonetheless, they went on to triumph in 5 of their remaining six league section fixtures in Europe, profitable the ultimate three by an combination scoreline of 10-0, incomes them a third-placed end within the standings and computerized qualification to the final 16.
Galatasaray, in the meantime, have been pressured to navigate the play-offs after ending the league section in twentieth, and there was actually no scarcity of drama of their knockout tie in opposition to Juventus.
Okan Buruk’s facet got here from 2-1 down to ascertain a wholesome 5-2 benefit following the primary leg in Turkey, however have been then overwhelmed 3-0 after 90 minutes in Turin, taking the competition into extra-time. Nonetheless, Galatasaray have been lastly capable of capitalise on their man benefit following Lloyd Kelly’s second-half crimson, with objectives from Osimhen and Baris Yilmaz clinching victory within the tie.
Galatasaray will hope for an additional quick begin of their tie with Liverpool, with their residence leg as soon as once more coming first. They may take confidence from Liverpool’s failure to win in every of their three visits within the Champions League, although the Merseyside membership do have one notably fond reminiscence from their travels to Istanbul.
The winner of this tie will face both Chelsea or defending champions Paris Saint-Germain within the quarter-finals, with Actual Madrid, Bayern Munich and Manchester Metropolis additionally of their half of the draw.
Victor Osimhen’s penalty was sufficient to beat Liverpool in September – Francisco Seco/AP