Liverpool travelled to Turkey to face Galatasaray in the first leg of their Champions League Round of 16 clash, but it proved to be a frustrating night for Arne Slot’s side as they suffered a narrow 1–0 defeat.
The two teams had previously met in September, when a 16th-minute penalty from Victor Osimhen was the difference between them. Liverpool went on to lose only twice during the league phase and finished second, while Galatasaray placed 20th and booked their spot in the last 16 after eliminating Juventus in a two-leg playoff.
Back at Rams Park in Istanbul, the hosts started nervously but found the breakthrough early. After just seven minutes, Liverpool failed to properly clear a corner and Mario Lemina nodded the ball in from close range to give Galatasaray the lead.
The second half saw both sides have goals ruled out in controversial fashion. Osimhen had an effort disallowed for offside, while Liverpool thought they had equalised before Ibrahima Konaté was judged to have handled the ball before it crossed the line. In the end, Lemina’s first-half goal proved decisive as the match finished 1–0.
It was a particularly difficult night for Florian Wirtz, who had several chances early in the game but was unable to convert them. His missed opportunities proved costly, especially as Galatasaray scored shortly afterwards.
The German attacker registered three shots without finding the net and missed a clear chance. He was substituted in the 72nd minute after completing just 71% of his 28 passes and losing possession 14 times. His 6.3 SofaScore rating was the lowest of any player on the pitch.
Having started on the left wing, Slot may consider deploying Wirtz more centrally in the return leg. However, after his disappointing performance in Turkey, it remains uncertain whether he will keep his place in the starting lineup.
Liverpool supporters were quick to criticise the German midfielder on social media. One fan claimed Wirtz had been a huge waste of money and lacked conviction in his performances. Another argued he was not at the level required for Liverpool and suggested major changes were needed in midfield.
Others also expressed frustration, describing his display as shocking and ineffective, while some felt it was one of his worst performances in a Liverpool shirt. One supporter even summed up the mood bluntly by labelling the performance a disgrace.
