Galatasaray vs Liverpool: Champions League Preview and Prediction: 30/9/2025

Galatasaray enter this season as reigning Turkish champions, and their domestic campaign could hardly have started better. With six wins from six matches, they have already opened up a six-point lead at the top of the Süper Lig table. Their attack has been ruthless—scoring 18 goals—while their defense has remained tight, conceding just twice. Wins over Gaziantep, Karagümrük, Kayserispor, Rizespor, and Eyüpspor have given them early momentum, and a meeting with Alanyaspor will precede their clash against Liverpool.

However, European competition has told a different story. On the opening night of the Champions League, Galatasaray were handed a heavy 5-1 defeat by Eintracht Frankfurt. The loss was a stark reminder of their recent struggles on the continental stage, where early exits from the group phase have become common. Last season, they even failed to reach the groups after being eliminated in the playoffs.

Liverpool’s Strong Start Under Slot

Liverpool, much like their Turkish opponents, lifted their domestic title last season, finishing comfortably ahead of Arsenal. The Reds have continued their fine form into the new Premier League campaign, winning their opening five matches against Bournemouth, Newcastle, Arsenal, Burnley, and Everton. They already enjoy a five-point lead over Arsenal, though their season began with disappointment when they lost the Community Shield final to Crystal Palace on penalties.

In Europe, Liverpool are aiming to improve on last season, when PSG knocked them out in the round of 16. Their 2025/26 Champions League journey began positively, as they edged Atlético Madrid 3-2 at Anfield, with captain Virgil van Dijk scoring the decisive late goal.

Team News and Key Players

For Galatasaray, the major setback is the absence of star striker Victor Osimhen, who has scored two goals in three games this season but remains sidelined after picking up an injury on international duty. Mauro Icardi has stepped up in his place, scoring four times in five league outings, while new signings İlkay Gündoğan and Leroy Sané bring proven quality and experience to the squad. Barış Yılmaz has also impressed, with three goals and two assists in four games, making him another player Liverpool’s defense will need to watch closely.

Liverpool, meanwhile, have no significant injuries and should be able to field a full-strength lineup. The competition for the central striker role remains open, with Alexander Isak and Hugo Ekitiké both pushing for starts—Ekitiké has three goals already this season. Florian Wirtz is expected to start despite a slow beginning to the campaign, while questions are being asked of Cody Gakpo’s limited impact.

The midfield has been more reliable, with Ryan Gravenberch, Dominik Szoboszlai, Alexis Mac Allister, and Mohamed Salah all contributing consistently. Salah in particular has begun the season strongly, with three goals and three assists across all competitions. In defense, the reliable partnership of Ibrahima Konaté and Virgil van Dijk will likely anchor the back line, supported by summer recruits Jeremie Frimpong and Milos Kerkez on the flanks. Alisson, as ever, will be in goal.

What to Expect

Galatasaray’s domestic dominance contrasts sharply with their European struggles, and the gulf in experience could prove decisive. While they have shown attacking promise in Turkey, their defensive vulnerabilities were brutally exposed by Frankfurt. Facing Liverpool, a team in superb form and brimming with attacking options, presents an even greater challenge.

Liverpool, under Arne Slot, look refreshed and tactically balanced. Their record in Europe has been formidable, with 13 wins from their last 18 Champions League fixtures, including five consecutive victories. For Galatasaray, the recent run of seven defeats in nine European outings suggests another difficult night ahead.

Prediction

Galatasaray’s attack, led by Icardi and supported by Sané and Yılmaz, should keep them competitive, but Liverpool’s firepower and experience make them clear favorites. The Reds’ depth and form suggest they will extend their winning streak.

Prediction: Galatasaray 1 – 3 Liverpool