Live Coverage: Liverpool vs Galatasaray in Istanbul
The UEFA Champions League 2025/26 continues with a high-stakes group-stage clash as Liverpool visit Galatasaray at the RamS Stadium in Istanbul. The match, scheduled to kick off at 10:00 PM local time (10:00 PM Cairo/Makkah time), brings together two European giants in a bid to gain momentum early in the campaign. 365Scores is on hand to provide live updates, team news, and key moments from the night.
Team News and Likely Lineups
Liverpool arrive with a blend of experience and youth, aiming to bounce back after a demanding start to group play. In goal, Alisson Becker is expected to marshal the defense, which features Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate in the center with full-backs providing width. The midfield trio is headlined by Dominik Szoboszlai, Florian Vertz, and Ryan Gravenberch, supplying creativity and energy for the forward line. Up front, Cody Gakpo and Hugo Ekitike are joined by Curtis Jones, as Jurgen Klopp looks to maintain pressure through the middle of the park.
Galatasaray, eager to rebound from their opening fixture, line up with an attacking approach. The Nigerian forward Victor Osimhen has been a focal point in the early stages, having already found the net via a penalty in the first half. The Turkish side will rely on pace and inventive play to puncture the Liverpool defense, testing Alisson and his back line with rapid counter-attacks and set-piece opportunities.
First-Half Highlights
Galatasaray took an early lead when Victor Osimhen converted a 16th-minute penalty, giving the hosts something to cheer. Liverpool created chances of their own, notably through a late first-half surge led by Hugo Ekitike, who produced a dangerous run but could not beat the Galatasaray goalkeeper on this occasion. The Brazilian keeper Alisson Becker also produced sharp saves to keep the visitors in the game as the half wore on.
As the teams settled into a rhythm, the pace of the midfield battles—Szoboszlai for Liverpool and Osimhen plus Gundogan for Galatasaray—generated a steady flow of chances. The tempo remained high, with both sides seeking to exploit the space behind the back lines while maintaining defensive discipline in transition.
Second-Half Developments and Crucial Moments
Early in the second period, Liverpool were dealt a setback as Alisson Becker picked up a muscle issue, necessitating a substitution. Mamardashvili stepped in to replace him and stabilize a goalkeeping position immediately. The visitors immediately pressed for an equalizer, with Ekitike contributing to several lively forward actions before being withdrawn with a minor injury at 67 minutes to make way for Mac Allister.
The tactical chess match continued, with both sides creating chances but also showing strong defensive organization. The match remained tightly contested as the clock ticked down, and substitutions adjusted the pace of the game to either preserve a lead or chase an equalizer. Fans remained vocal and hopeful as the two teams sought to capitalize on late openings.
What This Means for the Group Stage
With the result still in the balance, Liverpool’s ability to manage injuries and maintain intensity will be crucial as the group phase progresses. Galatasaray, buoyed by home support and a rapid attacking setup, will aim to maximize their opportunities against European competition’s elite. Both sides will regroup ahead of their next assignments, knowing that every point in the group stage can influence qualification chances come spring.
Where to Watch
The match is broadcast on beIN Sports HD 1 in the Middle East and North Africa, ensuring fans across the region can follow the action live. Kick-off is at 10:00 PM local time, with match coverage and live commentary available through various regional broadcasters and streaming platforms.
