Liverpool FC return to Anfield needing a comeback as they host Galatasaray SK in the second leg of their UEFA Champions League Round of 16 clash.
The Reds are trailing 1-0 after last week’s first leg in Istanbul, where Mario Lemina scored the decisive early goal. It means Liverpool must win at home to keep their European hopes alive.
Manager Arne Slot is under pressure. His side have won just once in their last four matches and are coming off a frustrating 1-1 draw with Tottenham, where they conceded late.
Another early Champions League exit—after last season’s defeat to Paris Saint-Germain—would raise serious questions.
Still, Anfield remains a major advantage. Liverpool have been strong at home in Europe and have a history of overturning 1-0 first-leg deficits. The expectation is that the crowd will play a big role in pushing the team forward.
Coach Okan Buruk knows his team are in a strong position but remains cautious, still calling Liverpool favourites.
Galatasaray are in excellent form, winning five straight matches and leading their domestic league comfortably. They also have a strong record when winning the first leg at home.
However, their away form in Europe is a major concern. They’ve struggled badly on the road in the Champions League and rarely win in England.
Team News
Liverpool are still without key players including Alexander Isak, Conor Bradley and Wataru Endo due to injury.Key players like Mohamed Salah, Ibrahima Konaté and Hugo Ekitike are expected to return to the starting lineup.
Midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai has been Liverpool’s main attacking threat in Europe this season.
For Galatasaray, defender Davinson Sánchez is suspended, while several players are unavailable due to squad registration rules.
The main danger comes from Victor Osimhen, who has been in top form, alongside attacking support from Barış Alper Yılmaz and Noa Lang.
Expected Lineups
Liverpool:Alisson; Frimpong, Konaté, Van Dijk, Kerkez; Mac Allister, Gravenberch; Salah, Szoboszlai, Wirtz; Ekitike
Galatasaray:
Çakır; Sallai, Singo, Bardakcı, Jakobs; Torreira, Lemina; Yılmaz, Sara, Lang; Osimhen
Expert Prediction
Liverpool 3-1 Galatasaray
