Liverpool Thrash Galatasaray 4-0 to Set up PSG Quarter-Final Clash
Liverpool overturned a first-leg deficit to defeat Galatasaray 4-0, sealing a UEFA Champions League quarter-final clash with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG).
Dominik Szoboszlai opened scoring before Mohamed Salah missed a first-half penalty, as Liverpool dominated proceedings at Anfield.
Arne Slot’s side struck three times in 11 second-half minutes through Hugo Ekitike, Ryan Gravenberch and Salah to seal progression.
Liverpool, trailing 1-0 from the first leg, levelled on aggregate after Szoboszlai converted a well-worked set-piece in the 25th minute.
Salah missed a penalty before half-time, denied by goalkeeper Ugurcan Cakir, but Liverpool remained firmly in control.
Ekitike restored momentum early in the second half, tapping in from close range after a precise assist from Salah in the 51st minute.
Gravenberch added a third two minutes later after Cakir saved Salah’s effort, as Liverpool intensified pressure on the visitors.
Salah later scored a stunning long-range effort in the 62nd minute, becoming the first African player to reach 50 Champions League goals.
Galatasaray had a goal ruled out for offside before Salah’s strike, while Liverpool created several more scoring chances.
Cakir made multiple saves to prevent a heavier defeat, as Galatasaray struggled without their travelling supporters and their talisman Victor Osimhen who was substituted off during the half time. Osimhen appeared to suffer a fracture in his arm after a collision in the opening 45 minutes of the game.
But the Super Eagles striker battled until the interval, where he was replaced by Leroy Sane for the second half. The result ensures two English clubs in the quarter-finals, with Arsenal also progressing to face Sporting CP.
Manchester City, Chelsea, Newcastle and Tottenham were eliminated earlier in the competition. For Slot, it marks his first Champions League quarter-final and an opportunity to face Luis Enrique’s PSG side.
Liverpool delivered a strong response after recent criticism, following a disappointing draw against Tottenham Hotspur.
Szoboszlai’s opener shifted momentum, leaving Galatasaray unable to cope with Liverpool’s attacking intensity.
Despite tactical changes by Galatasaray coach Okan Buruk, Liverpool maintained dominance throughout the encounter.
Liverpool created numerous chances and could have extended the margin but for Cakir’s outstanding performance
Reports of a €5m bonus for Galatasaray players proved inconsequential, as they failed to challenge Liverpool.
Liverpool now turn focus to their quarter-final tie against PSG, with hopes of advancing further in the competition. #Liverpool Thrash Galatasaray 4-0 to Set up PSG Quarter-Final Clash#
