Liverpool suffered their second consecutive defeat under manager Arne Slot, this time falling to Galatasaray in a bruising Champions League encounter in Turkey. The 0–1 loss was particularly painful for the Reds, with VAR drama and injuries to key players compounding a difficult evening.
Final Score & Goalscorers
Galatasaray 1–0 Liverpool
Galatasaray: Victor Osimhen (Penalty, 16′)
Liverpool: None
Key Match Events
- 16′ – Goal (Penalty): Victor Osimhen opened the scoring for Galatasaray from the spot after Dominik Szoboszlai was penalized for a handball inside the box.
- 56′ – Injury Substitution: Liverpool goalkeeper, Alisson Becker, was forced off after sustaining an injury while making a routine save. He was replaced by Giorgi Mamardashvili.
- 68′ – Injury Substitution: Forward Hugo Ekitiké was also injured and substituted off, with Alexis Mac Allister coming on.
- 88′ – VAR Drama: The referee awarded a penalty to Liverpool following a foul on Ibrahima Konaté, but after a lengthy VAR review, the decision was overturned, as the defender was deemed to have touched the ball first.
Match Analysis
- Liverpool’s Inefficiency: Liverpool dominated possession but appeared disjointed and struggled to convert chances, missing several good opportunities (including a clear one for Cody Gakpo). Their lack of precision in the final third proved costly.
- Turkish Resilience: Galatasaray put in a spirited and aggressive defensive performance, particularly in the second half, holding onto their early penalty lead. The home crowd was raucous and played a major role in motivating their side.
- Frustrating Stoppages: The game was characterized by numerous stoppages and delays (eight minutes were added on), making it difficult for Liverpool to build any sustained momentum.
Conclusion
This was a damaging night for Liverpool. Beyond the defeat, the team lost both goalkeeper Alisson and striker Ekitiké (at least temporarily) to injuries, and suffered a significant psychological blow with the late penalty reversal. Liverpool will need a swift recovery following their first back-to-back defeats (following the loss to Crystal Palace in the Premier League).