The second matchday of the 2025/26 Champions League brings one of the most exciting games of the round. Galatasaray hosts Liverpool at the RAMS Park, in a clash marked by the Turkish side’s European urgency and the English team’s ambition, who arrive after a solid start in the tournament.

Liverpool looking to consolidate in Europe

Arne Slot’s side travels to Istanbul boosted by their opening win against Atlético de Madrid, though they also carry the need to bounce back after a surprising defeat in the Premier League against Crystal Palace.

The Dutch coach faces this challenge with some key absences. Federico Chiesa was left out of the squad due to a minor issue and will be rested for the next league fixture. However, all eyes are on Mohamed Salah, who is just two goals away from reaching the historic milestone of 50 Champions League goals, which would make him the first African player ever to achieve it.

Liverpool will try to impose their attacking style and make the most of their firepower up front to silence a stadium that promises to be a true pressure cooker.

Galatasaray seeking to regain European prestige

The Turkish side arrives in better form domestically, riding a positive run that keeps them in the fight for the top spots. However, their international performances have been far less convincing: they are winless in seven straight European matches and kicked off this edition with a heavy 5-1 defeat against Eintracht Frankfurt.

The atmosphere in Istanbul will be a crucial factor. The RAMS Park is usually a fortress, and the home fans will push relentlessly, knowing this match could shape the club’s continental campaign.

A match filled with history and pressure

The clash between Galatasaray and Liverpool will not only pit together two giants from Turkey and England but will also serve as a test of character for both projects. While Slot’s men want to reaffirm themselves as title contenders, Okan Buruk’s side desperately needs to restore credibility in Europe.

Here are all the goals from the match: