Galatasaray and Liverpool play their game for Matchday Two of the Champions League League Phase at the Ali Sami Yen Spor Kompleksi, home of Galatasaray.
Facts
- In past meetings, Galatasaray won once, Liverpool won once, and there were two draws.
- In Turkey, one win for Galatasaray and one draw.
- Both Teams scored in both previous games hosted by Galatasaray.
- Both Teams to Score + Over 4.5 in their last two encounters; BTTS in the last three.
- Both Teams to Score + Over 2.5 in 10 of Galatasaray’s last 11 European games.
- BTTS in all 10 of Galatasaray’s Europa League matches last season, as well as their Champions League opener this year.
Betting Tip: Galatasaray – Liverpool
The away win is priced just above 1.60. It’s not exceptional value, but in Liverpool’s current form, they are difficult to oppose, while Galatasaray’s defensive issues make them hard to trust. Tactically, the match-up also suits the English side. For a better return, the bet to take is Liverpool to win, combined with goals.
- Recommendation: Liverpool win + Over 1,5
- Odds: 1.80 (at the time of writing)
Galatasaray
The Turkish champions made a disastrous start, suffering a 5-1 defeat in Germany against Eintracht Frankfurt. Buruk’s team actually got off to the perfect start, taking the lead through Akgun (8’). But after the 30th minute, they completely collapsed.
Unable to handle the pressure, they lost composure and exposed huge defensive gaps. An own goal brought the equaliser (37’), and two more strikes followed before halftime, turning the game upside down.
Galatasaray tried to respond after the break, but their attacking play lacked ideas, and the back line was wide open. Frankfurt added a fourth (66’) and a fifth (75’), sealing a heavy defeat.
The need for points now is urgent, even against a powerhouse like Liverpool. The club invested heavily in the summer precisely to compete at this level, and a positive result at home would be vital for morale and qualification hopes.
Liverpool
Liverpool began their campaign in characteristic fashion. Dramatic, chaotic, and ultimately victorious. They beat Atletico Madrid 3-2, though their defensive lapses almost cost them.
The Reds flew right out of the blocks: Robertson scored (4’) and Salah doubled the lead (6’). They missed chances for a third, and just before the break, Atletico pulled one back (45’).
The second half was tense. Wasteful finishing saw Liverpool fail to kill the game, and Atletico punished them with an equaliser (81’). But, true to tradition, Liverpool struck late: Van Dijk rose highest from a corner to head home the winner (92’).
Their strong league form only underlines their momentum, laying the foundations for another title. However, a loss to Crystal Palace last weekend could be additional motivation for the Reds as they wouldn’t want to worry their fans in two consecutive matches.
