Champions League: Galatasaray edges closer to the quarter-finals after defeating Liverpool

Galatasaray edges out Liverpool (1-0) in the first leg of the Champions League round of 16. The Turks gain a slight advantage ahead of the return match at Anfield. Ibrahima Konaté struggled, letting a ball slip on a corner, which allowed Mario Lemina to head in the opener in the 7th minute, assisted by Victor Osimhen. Liverpool tried to respond, but Florian Wirtz missed a great opportunity. Giorgi Mamardashvili was crucial in goal for Galatasaray. The Reds, without Alisson, pushed hard in the second half, but a lob from Hugo Ekitike went over the bar, and a goal from Konaté was disallowed for handball. Galatasaray must manage their lead, while Liverpool urgently needs to turn the tide to avoid an early exit. The winner will face the victor of the PSG-Chelsea clash.