Mario Lemina’s early goal gave Galatasaray a 1-0 victory over Liverpool in the first leg of their Champions League last-16 tie at the Ali Sami Yen Stadium. The Turkish side dominated much of the match and could have extended their lead, but Liverpool escaped with a narrow deficit ahead of the return leg at Anfield.
Liverpool manager Arne Slot admitted his side were second best, saying: “There were a lot of similarities between three months ago and now… we had multiple chances to score… after 10, 15 minutes you expect us to lead and then their first attack leads to a set-piece goal.” He added: “Next week we play at Anfield and our fans will be so supportive for us.”
The visitors had a goal disallowed when the ball brushed Ibrahima Konaté’s arm before deflecting in off Virgil van Dijk. Galatasaray also had a goal ruled out for offside, with debate over whether Barış Alper Yılmaz interfered with play. Liverpool’s best chances fell to Cody Gakpo and Hugo Ekitike, but the latter headed over from close range in the 89th minute.
Galatasaray’s Victor Osimhen caused problems throughout, forcing a save from Giorgi Mamardashvili and seeing a deflected shot go wide. The hosts also missed opportunities through Gabriel Sara and Lucas Torreira. Liverpool’s Dominik Szoboszlai and Ryan Gravenberch were booked, while Galatasaray’s Davinson Sánchez will miss the second leg after receiving a yellow card.
Despite the defeat, Liverpool will be relieved to have kept the deficit to one goal. Slot’s side will look to overturn the result at Anfield, where they have strong home support. The second leg takes place next week.
