Liverpool vs Galatasaray: Date, Time, TV Channel & Team News | 2026 Second Leg Preview
Anfield will host a crucial second leg in the Champions League Round of 16 on , as Liverpool face Galatasaray with everything on the line. The Turkish side carry a narrow 1-0 advantage from the first leg, and the prospect of a hostile atmosphere awaits them on Merseyside.
Galatasaray’s victory in Istanbul was their second against Liverpool this campaign, having also secured a 1-0 win during the league phase. Yet, replicating that success at Anfield will be a monumental task. Liverpool, despite a season hampered by injuries, will be determined to overturn the deficit and progress to the quarter-finals.
The weekend provided a boost for Galatasaray, who continued their winning momentum with a comprehensive 3-0 victory over Istanbul Basaksehir. Victor Osimhen found the net in that match, further enhancing his impressive form and adding to Liverpool’s concerns.
Team News and Potential Lineups
Liverpool’s injury woes continue to be a significant challenge. Four first-team players remain sidelined with long-term injuries, placing a strain on Jurgen Klopp’s squad depth. Alexander Isak is nearing a return from a broken leg, but is not expected to feature until next month. Wataru Endo, Conor Bradley, and Giovanni Leoni are all out for the remainder of the season.
Despite the injury concerns, there are positive signs for Liverpool. Hugo Ekitike and Mohamed Salah were given limited minutes against Tottenham, suggesting they are in contention to start against Galatasaray. Ibrahima Konate and Milos Kerkez were also rested in that match and are likely to return to the starting lineup.
Galatasaray, in contrast, have a relatively clean bill of health. Only reserve goalkeeper Enes Buyuk is currently injured, and his absence is unlikely to impact the team’s overall strength. However, they will be without Davinson Sanchez, who is suspended following a booking in the first leg for a foul on Ekitike.
Key Battle: Osimhen vs. Liverpool’s Defense
Much of the pre-match focus will be on Victor Osimhen. The Nigerian striker has been in scintillating form for Galatasaray, and his ability to find the net will be crucial to their chances of progressing. Liverpool’s defense, already weakened by injuries, will need to be at their best to contain him.
Osimhen’s performance in the first leg was a key factor in Galatasaray’s victory, and his recent goal against Istanbul Basaksehir demonstrates his continued sharpness. Liverpool will need to disrupt his service and prevent him from getting into dangerous positions.
Tactical Considerations
Liverpool will likely adopt a more attacking approach at Anfield, knowing they need to score at least once to have any chance of progressing. This could leave them vulnerable to counter-attacks, particularly if Galatasaray can exploit the space left behind by their full-backs.
Galatasaray, are likely to prioritize defensive solidity and look to hit Liverpool on the break. Their disciplined defensive structure has been a hallmark of their success this season, and they will need to maintain that level of organization to withstand Liverpool’s pressure.
Prediction
Galatasaray’s two victories over Liverpool this season suggest they are a difficult team to break down. However, Anfield is a formidable fortress, and Liverpool’s home advantage could prove decisive. The Reds will be desperate to avoid another upset and will throw everything they have at Galatasaray.
The match is expected to be a tightly contested affair, with both teams creating chances. While Liverpool may force extra-time, Galatasaray’s slightly fresher legs and clinical finishing could see them pull off a surprise upset. A 1-1 draw after extra-time, resulting in a 2-1 aggregate victory for Galatasaray, is a plausible outcome.
Head-to-Head History
Historically, matches between Liverpool and Galatasaray have been closely fought. No previous encounter has been decided by more than a single goal, indicating another cagey affair is likely at Anfield. This suggests that defensive discipline and clinical finishing will be key to securing a positive result for either side.
Where to Watch
For viewers in the UK, the match will be broadcast live on TNT Sports 1, with coverage beginning at 7pm GMT. A live stream will also be available via the Discovery+ app, and website. Fans can also follow all the action through a live blog on Standard Sport’s website.