Galatasaray vs Liverpool: Match Preview, Latest Team News and How to Watch | OneFootball

Match Preview: Galatasaray vs Liverpool

Liverpool travel to Istanbul for a crucial UEFA Champions League encounter with Galatasaray, with kick off scheduled for 5.45pm GMT on Tuesday, March 10, 2026. Rams Park will provide the backdrop for a tie that carries genuine intrigue as both clubs look to strengthen their path towards the quarter finals.

Liverpool secured their place in the round of 16 after recovering from an early league phase setback. That defeat arrived on matchday two, though the Reds regrouped effectively and sealed automatic progression with a convincing win over Qarabag in their final fixture.

Galatasaray arrive with momentum of their own. The Turkish champions progressed through a dramatic play off against Juventus, winning 7-5 on aggregate across two breathless legs. That result, combined with a derby victory over Besiktas in their most recent outing, ensures Okan Buruk’s side approach this Champions League tie full of confidence.

Liverpool Team News and Selection Questions

Arne Slot’s Liverpool side head to Turkey with several selection concerns. Goalkeeper Alisson Becker has not travelled after feeling discomfort following a training session, a late setback that forces a reshuffle between the posts.

Federico Chiesa is also absent after missing training, meaning he will not feature in Istanbul. There was concern surrounding Alexis Mac Allister after he was forced off following a heavy challenge from Hwang Hee chan in Liverpool’s recent outing, though the midfielder has travelled with the squad. Whether he starts against Galatasaray remains uncertain.

Liverpool’s injury list continues to include Alexander Isak, Wataru Endo, Conor Bradley and Giovanni Leoni.

Photo IMAGO

There should be reinforcements for Slot in other areas. Hugo Ekitike was rested during the FA Cup win against Wolves and is expected to return to the starting line up. Ibrahima Konate and Jeremie Frimpong were also preserved and could come back into the side.

Young forward Rio Ngumoha impressed at Molineux and may feature again, either from the bench or potentially from the start. Florian Wirtz is another option after making an appearance as a substitute in the same match.

Galatasaray Confidence Ahead of Liverpool Visit

Galatasaray enter this UEFA Champions League meeting with very few injury issues. Manager Okan Buruk has almost a full squad available, with only reserve goalkeeper Enes Buyuk sidelined.

Leroy Sane is eligible to play despite receiving the first red card of his senior career in the recent Super Lig match against Besiktas. That suspension applies domestically and does not carry over into the Champions League.

Much of the attacking focus will fall on Victor Osimhen. The Nigeria striker has already scored seven goals in the Champions League this season, including one against Liverpool earlier in the campaign. His pace and movement will test Liverpool’s defensive organisation.

Prediction for Liverpool vs Galatasaray

When Liverpool previously faced Galatasaray this season, the match came during a difficult stretch that saw six defeats in seven games. Slot will view this rematch as an opportunity to demonstrate how much his side have evolved since that period.

Recent form offers encouragement. Liverpool have won seven of their last nine matches across all competitions, suggesting a side that has regained rhythm and belief.

Galatasaray will be dangerous in Istanbul, particularly with the backing of their home support and the form of Osimhen in the UEFA Champions League. Still, Liverpool’s improved structure and depth should give them the edge heading into the first leg.

Prediction, Galatasaray 1-2 Liverpool.