Hosts strike early in Istanbul
Galatasaray claimed a narrow advantage in their Champions League last-16 tie, Yankee Scores reports
Galatasaray claim shocking victory, defeating Liverpool 1-0 on a deafening night at Rams Park. Arne Slot’s 100th match in charge ended in frustration as his side struggled to find rhythm.
Before kickoff, Galatasaray supporters unveiled a touching banner tribute to Victor Osimhen’s late mother, creating an emotional backdrop for the Champions League clash. The atmosphere at Rams Park was deafening, and it carried into the match as the hosts struck early.
Osimhen couldn’t hold back the tears after seeing this banner from the Galatasaray fans 🥺
It’s a tribute to his late mother, whom he lost at a very young age 🕊️ pic.twitter.com/fiqHbh870u
— 433 (@433) March 10, 2026
Mario Lemina headed home after just seven minutes, capitalising on Liverpool’s lapse at a corner. The Premier League champions looked unsettled, with Florian Wirtz missing chances before and after the opener. The hosts fed off the energy of the crowd, pressing high and forcing Liverpool into mistakes.
Defeat in the first leg. pic.twitter.com/BQDxbEBCaX
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) March 10, 2026
VAR drama and missed chances
Galatasaray thought they had doubled the lead when Victor Osimhen found the net in the second half, but VAR ruled the goal out for offside in the build-up. Ibrahima Konaté also believed he had scored an equalizer, only for the review to show a handball. Giorgi MamardashLiverpoolvili, deputizing for the injured Alisson Becker, produced key saves to keep the visitors in contention.
Slot’s challenge ahead
The defeat marked Liverpool’s second loss of the campaign and mirrored their earlier 1-0 setback in Istanbul during the group stage. Slot admitted his side must sharpen up, with the second leg at Anfield looming next Wednesday. The Dutchman’s tactical adjustments will be under scrutiny as Liverpool chase a turnaround.
Looking forward
Galatasaray now hold the upper hand, but Liverpool remain confident of overturning the deficit at home. The tie is finely poised, with the Premier League champiedlGalatasarayge Liverpool in first ons needing a strong response to keep their European hopes alive.
