Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen provided the assist for Galatasaray’s solitary goal in their 1-0 victory over Liverpool, Soccernet.ng reports.
Galatasaray welcomed English giants Liverpool to Rams Park for their UEFA Champions League Round of 16 clash. When the two sides met earlier in the competition, the Cimbom ran out 1-0 winners. As such, fans expected another thrilling, tightly-contested encounter.
Galatasaray started the match nervously, losing possession during their build-up and gifting opportunities to the Reds.
However, Arne Slot’s men lacked their usual clinical edge and failed to capitalize on these early defensive lapses.
Once Galatasaray settled their nerves, their very first meaningful attack resulted in a goal. In the sixth minute, they earned a corner after a cross from Noa Lang was deflected behind.
Gabriel Sara took charge of the set-piece, whipping a cross into the box where Osimhen rose highest. The Nigerian striker headed the ball toward Mario Lemina, who threw himself at the delivery to nudge it into the net, making it 1-0.
After the opening goal, the game stabilized. While both sides created decent openings, neither could find the finishing touch.
Osimhen had two clear-cut chances to double the lead but failed to convert on both occasions. Despite the early breakthrough, the intensity remained high as the first half drew to a close.
In the second half, Liverpool upped the ante in search of an equalizer. However, their desperation left gaps at the back.
Galatasaray nearly punished them in the 63rd minute when Osimhen found the back of the net, but the effort was ruled out after he was deemed offside in the build-up.
Liverpool suffered a similar frustration eight minutes later. Ibrahima Konaté appeared to have scored and was already celebrating with his teammates, but a VAR review intervened. Replays showed the ball had struck his hand, thereby making the goal illegitimate and preserving Galatasaray's narrow lead.
In the 85th minute, Galatasaray launched a lightning-fast counter-attack, presenting Osimhen with a golden opportunity on the edge of the box. He attempted a powerful strike toward goal, but his effort was blocked, resulting in a corner that the visitors eventually cleared.
We're taking the W to Anfield.#GSLIV #UCL pic.twitter.com/H6bVAei6sH
— Galatasaray EN (@Galatasaray) March 10, 2026
The match eventually ended 1-0 after 90 minutes, with Galatasaray securing a vital first-leg advantage.
All to Fight for in the Second Leg: Can Victor Osimhen Lead Galatasaray's Charge?
With the first leg ending 1-0 in Galatasaray's favor, Galatasaray will head to Anfield next week hoping to finish the job. However, progression is by no means guaranteed.
Anfield is a renowned fortress for Liverpool, where many of Europe's top clubs have crumbled in years past. Galatasaray will need to give more than 100 percent if they hope to leave Merseyside unscathed.
Osimhen was impressive once again today, using his physicality and incredible work rate to harass and trouble the Liverpool defense. But even with his contributions, he will likely rue the missed chances that could have put the tie out of reach.
Next week, the margin for error will be razor-slim. The Nigerian talisman must be at his ruthless best if Galatasaray are to take anything from the return fixture.
Having already bailed his team out against Juventus in the playoff round, he will be expected to produce similar heroics in Merseyside next week.
