Galatasaray v Liverpool – Preview, Predictions and Best Bets

The Reds lost in the league on Saturday, whilst Galatasaray have won their first seven league matches but were beaten heavily on matchday one of this competition.     

Galatasaray Form

The Lions won last season’s Turkish Super Lig and have won all seven of their league matches so far this term. Their opening two fixtures saw 3-0 wins against ten men, versus Gaziantep and Karagumruk respectively. A 4-0 win followed at Kayserispor before a 3-1 home win over Rizespor with 64% possession.

After cruising to a 2-0 win at Eyupspor, they were humbled 5-1 at Eintracht Frankfurt in the Champions League. Gala led 1-0 and leaked five goals from just 11 shots and 38% possession for their opponents. They’ve since beaten Konyaspor 3-1 and eked out a 1-0 win at Alanyaspor on Friday.

Galatasaray Team News

Coach Okan Buruk has no reported injuries for this match. Victor Osimhen was rested on Friday and will return to the XI in place of Mauro Icardi, despite the latter scoring in his last four league matches.

Leroy Sane played as the number ten in the last match. This fixture could see Ilkay Gundogan come into the XI with Sane moving into a wider role. Former Wolves midfielder Mario Lemina is set for a recall too.

Galatasaray Motivation

This is a must-not-lose after their thumping in Germany on matchday one. Motivation will be very high for all the former EPL players in the squad.

They will look to keep things tight in midfield. Sane and Osimhen offer pace on the counter.

Liverpool Form

The Reds won seven straight matches this season after losing the Community Shield on penalties. They scored two late goals to beat Bournemouth 4-2 on the opening day before a 3-2 win at Newcastle. They surrendered a 2-0 lead to ten men in that victory. A late freekick sealed a 1-0 home win over Arsenal.

Their iffy performances continued as a 95^th minute penalty was needed to beat Burnley 1-0. They again scored very late to beat Atletico Madrid 3-2 having thrown away a 2-0 lead. After beating Everton and Southampton both 2-1, they lost to Crystal Palace last time out. Liverpool conceded in the 97^th minute and allowed 2.92 xG.

Liverpool Team News

Giovanni Leoni is out injured at centre back for Liverpool. Hugo Ekitike returns in attack after a suspension and could lead the line, with Alexander Isak on the bench.

Jeremie Frimpong is expected to replace Conor Bradley at right back. Cody Gakpo may be recalled down the left wing. Federico Chiesa has been added to the Champions League squad.

Liverpool Motivation

Arne Slot’s team will want a reaction to Saturday’s defeat. They will go to Istanbul and look to win this match.

An attacking and open approach is expected. The Reds have been porous defensively this term and may simply have to outscore their opponents.

Key Stats

• Galatasaray have lost just 1 of their last 4 matches vs Liverpool (1 win, 2 draws)
• Galatasaray have won 7 of their 8 matches this season
• Liverpool have won 7 of their last 8 matches
• Liverpool have conceded 21 goals in their last 11 fixtures

Verdict

This should be a good match, especially with Liverpool’s defensive issues. The Reds have so much quality that a win is still expected in Turkiye.

Featured Bet: Liverpool win, Both teams to score and Isak to score anytime at 3.40

Alternate Bet: Liverpool win and Over 2.5 goals at 2.00

Anytime Goalscorer Tips: Isak at 1.93 or Osimhen at 2.30