Liverpool will host Galatasaray in the second leg of their Champions League round-of-16 tie at Anfield. Manager Arne Slot expressed confidence in the fans' support despite two prior losses to the Turkish side this season. The match follows a frustrating 1-1 draw against Tottenham.
Arne Slot anticipates strong backing from Liverpool supporters for the upcoming Champions League clash with Galatasaray, marking the first home game against them this season. Slot acknowledged the challenge, stating, “It’s difficult because we have played twice against them and lost twice against them. The good thing for us is that it is the first game we play at home [against them] and we have the support of our fans, who will be supportive again tomorrow night because that is what they have always been and will always be for this club.” This follows boos from fans after a late equalizer by Richarlison secured a 1-1 draw with Tottenham, prompting criticism from pundit Jamie Carragher on the team's desire. Slot defended his players' commitment, noting their immediate response after conceding and their consistent effort throughout the season. He remarked, “What I liked after we conceded the 1-1 was immediately the commitment they [the players] have.” Andy Robertson praised Slot's calm approach amid scrutiny following Liverpool's Premier League title win in his first season. Robertson said, “He’s stayed calm and tried to find the answers... It’s up to us to stand up to that.” Galatasaray enter in form, having won their last five matches across competitions, including a victory over Istanbul Basaksehir that extended their Super Lig lead to seven points. Team news indicates Liverpool monitor Joe Gomez's fitness after a niggle, while Galatasaray miss Enes Büyük due to a shoulder injury and Davinson Sánchez through suspension. Predicted line-ups feature Mohamed Salah and Hugo Ekitiké for Liverpool, and Victor Osimhen for Galatasaray. Historically, Liverpool have a strong Anfield record in Europe but struggle after away first-leg defeats. The game kicks off at 8pm and will be broadcast on TNT Sports.
