Liverpool vs Galatasaray: Predicted lineups and form guide
By Joel Masibo, March 18, 2026Catch all the essential details ahead of the second-leg clash in the UEFA Champions League round of 16 encounter between Liverpool FC and Galatasaray SK on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, at Anfield.
The decisive fixture will unfold as Liverpool hosts the Turkish champions in a crucial return leg. Galatasaray arrive with a narrow advantage after securing a 1-0 victory in the first meeting.
Despite trailing by a single goal, Liverpool will draw confidence from playing in front of their home supporters, a factor that has often proven influential on European nights.
Although Galatasaray have historically struggled on English soil, they have previously shown resilience at Anfield, managing a draw in 2002 and pushing Liverpool close in a narrow 3-2 defeat in 2006 in the competition’s league phase.
The Turkish side’s overall away record in England may not be impressive, but their memorable win at Old Trafford under current manager Okan Buruk offers the belief that another upset could be possible.
Recent form suggests contrasting momentum between the two sides. Liverpool have experienced mixed results in their latest outings, while Galatasaray come into the match on an impressive winning streak, boosting their confidence ahead of the trip.
Both teams are expected to field strong line-ups, with Liverpool relying on key figures such as Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk, while Galatasaray will look to players like Victor Osimhen and Lucas Torreira to deliver once again.
What managers said
Arne Slot, Liverpool coach: “We have played them twice [this season] and lost twice. The good thing is that it’s the first time we’re playing at home and we have the support of our fans. We are working extremely hard to ensure the details are in our favour and not Galatasaray’s like last time.”
Okan Buruk, Galatasaray coach: “It’s not over. The second match is at their home ground and another very difficult match awaits us. Playing against a team like Liverpool is always very difficult because they are a high-quality team and you feel they can capitalise on every mistake you make. Now we will focus on the big test ahead. I always have faith in my players.”
From a broader perspective, overturning a one-goal deficit is well within reach for Liverpool, especially given their strong home performances in Europe this season. However, Galatasaray’s first-leg success provides them with both belief and a platform to aim for progression to the quarter-finals.
Possible line-ups
Liverpool: Alisson Becker; Frimpong, Van Dijk, Konaté, Kerkez; Gravenberch, Mac Allister; Salah, Szoboszlai, Wirtz; Ekitiké
Galatasaray: Uğurcan Çakır; Boey, Singo, Abdülkerim Bardakcı, Jakobs; Torreira, Lemina; Barış Alper Yılmaz, Gabriel Sara, Lang; Osimhen
Form guide
Liverpool
Form: DLWLW (most recent result first)
Latest: Liverpool 1-1 Tottenham, 15/03, English Premier League
Galatasaray
Form: WWWWW
Latest: Galatasaray 3-0 Başakşehir, 14/03, Turkish Super League