Liverpool’s Champions League hopes suffered a major setback on Tuesday as Mario Lemina’s first-half strike secured a 1-0 win for Galatasaray in the round of 16 first leg at RAMS Park, Istanbul.
Arne Slot’s side looked disjointed throughout, struggling to cope with the intensity of the Turkish giants and their raucous home support. Lemina’s goal punished poor defending and left the six-time European champions facing the prospect of a shock exit.
The Reds, currently languishing in sixth place in the Premier League, must now produce a comeback at Anfield on March 18 to keep their European dreams alive. The defeat also marked Slot’s 100th game in charge, one he will not remember fondly, as his team lacked cohesion in attack and defensive discipline.
Mohamed Salah, making his 81st Champions League appearance for Liverpool to surpass Jamie Carragher’s record, endured a frustrating night and was substituted after an anonymous hour on the pitch.
Liverpool had already fallen to Galatasaray in the group stage earlier this season, and once again wilted under the famously hostile atmosphere of Istanbul, where Galatasaray fans have long cultivated their reputation for intimidation.
