The Champions League returns to Istanbul as Galatasaray hosts Liverpool in what promises to be a great Group Stage encounter. Rams Park is never an easy place to visit, and the Turkish champions will be desperate to respond after a tough opening loss in Europe. Liverpool, meanwhile, arrives with pressure on their shoulders following their first domestic setback under Arne Slot against Crystal Palace. With the atmosphere expected to be electric and both teams eager to make a statement, this clash has everything to deliver.
Match details
- Fixture: Galatasaray vs Liverpool
- Date & Kick-off: Wednesday 1 October 2025, 12:30 AM
- Venue: Rams Park, Istanbul
- Competition Stage: Group Stage, Matchday 2 of the 2025-26 UEFA Champions League
Key Stats
Head-to-Head Balance: In UEFA Champions League history, Liverpool and Galatasaray have each won once and drawn twice.
Goals Scored in H2H: Across their UCL meetings, both teams have scored 6 goals each.
Galatasaray Home Form in Europe: They have lost only 3 of their last 19 home games in UEFA competition.
Recent Galatasaray European Run: Despite that decent home record, they have not won in their last 7 European home matches (4 draws, 3 defeats).
Defensive Weakness (Liverpool): Liverpool has conceded 7 goals in 6 Premier League games this season, a downturn compared to their defensive record last year.
Set-Piece Vulnerability: Four of Liverpool’s conceded goals so far this season have come from set pieces.
Galatasaray’s Set-Piece Strength: Galatasaray scored 24 goals from set-pieces last season (including penalties).
Key Players to watch out for
1. Leroy Sané (Winger)
Known for his speed and dribbling skills, Sané can stretch defenses and deliver dangerous crosses. His ability to create chances from wide positions will be vital in breaking down Liverpool’s defensive setup
2. Ilkay Gündoğan (Midfielder)
The experienced German international brings composure and vision to Galatasaray’s midfield. His ability to control the tempo and distribute passes effectively will be crucial in linking defense and attack
3. Mohamed Salah (Winger)
The Egyptian forward is just two goals away from 250 for Liverpool. His dribbling, pace, and finishing ability make him one of Europe’s most dangerous attackers. Salah’s presence will be crucial in Liverpool’s offensive strategies.
4. Hugo Ekitiké (Forward)
Returning from suspension, Ekitiké is expected to start and add depth to Liverpool’s attack. His physicality and finishing ability will be important in breaking down Galatasaray’s defense.
Predicted Lineups
Goalkeeper: Alisson Becker
Defenders: Conor Bradley (RB), Ibrahima Konaté (CB), Virgil van Dijk (CB), Andrew Robertson (LB)
Midfielders: Ryan Gravenberch, Dominik Szoboszlai
Attacking Midfielders: Mohamed Salah (RW), Florian Wirtz (AM), Cody Gakpo (LW)
Forward: Hugo Ekitiké
Galatasaray (4-2-3-1)
Goalkeeper: Ugurcan Çakır
Defenders: Wilfried Singo (RB), Davinson Sánchez (CB), Abdülkerim Bardakcı (CB), Eren Elmali (LB)
Midfielders: Lucas Torreira (CM), Gabriel Sara (CM)
Attacking Midfielders: Roland Sallai (RW), Ilkay Gündoğan (CAM), Leroy Sané / Barış Alper Yılmaz (LW)
Forward: Mauro Icardi (ST)
Liverpool Vs Galatasaray Key Injuries
Liverpool: Giovanni Leoni.
Galatasaray: Victor Osimhen
