Liverpool Stunned in Istanbul: How Galatasaray's 1-0 Victory Exposed Three Critical Flaws in Klopp's Reds
Liverpool endured another setback on Tuesday evening, falling to Galatasaray in their second group stage match of the 2025–26 Champions League campaign.
Victor Osimhen's first-half spot kick made the decisive difference on a troubling evening for Arne Slot, coming just three days after the Reds suffered their inaugural defeat of the new campaign against Crystal Palace.
His squad was unable to mount a comeback following their early disadvantage, with the resilient Turkish side consistently appearing more threatening in front of goal. Liverpool's absence of equilibrium and unity prevented them from maintaining sustained attacking pressure, leaving Slot with significant concerns ahead of the weekend's encounter with Chelsea.
Here are three key observations from the match.
Consecutive Losses
Liverpool have suffered consecutive defeats under Slot for only the second occasion since the Dutch manager replaced Jürgen Klopp at Anfield.
They were dominated at Selhurst Park on Saturday, ultimately conceding a late winner, and were outmatched in Istanbul on Tuesday evening, failing to trouble their resolute opponents after a promising start.
While they looked predictable in wide positions and lacked conviction when building through the middle, Hugo Ekitiké's performance, particularly in the opening period, offered encouragement. Nevertheless, Slot must discover how to ensure both he and Alexander Isak can function effectively together. Both talents are far too valuable to remain on the substitutes' bench, which could create additional balance complications.
While their offensive output disappointed, the main worry was Liverpool's nervousness in defense. Slot had apparently transformed the Reds into a disciplined and composed outfit following Klopp's high-energy approach, but the Premier League titleholders have thus far failed to establish any clear dominance at the beginning of 2025–26. In Istanbul, they seemed unsettled by the atmosphere from the supporters and the physicality of the Galatasaray players, who capitalized on an uncertain Liverpool display filled with errors.
There's no indication of panic within Slot's squad, but the Dutch manager urgently needs alternative options across various positions. These two defeats were inevitable.
Slot's Tactical Switch Lacks Impact
Mohamed Salah's sluggish beginning to the campaign led Slot to start him among the substitutes, with the Egyptian last coming off the bench in a meaningful Champions League fixture nearly three years prior.
On that previous occasion, Salah netted a hat-trick in rapid succession at Ibrox, and Slot would have been hoping for something comparable at RAMS Park.
The forward was introduced alongside Alexander Isak and Conor Bradley shortly after the hour mark, with Ekitiké moving to a wider role to replace the ineffective Cody Gakpo. Salah, meanwhile, came on for Jeremie Frimpong, who clearly doesn't appear ready to cover his absence during the upcoming African Cup of Nations.
While there was brief optimism as Isak found space behind the defense and managed a shot on target, the match then returned to a predictable rhythm. Liverpool pressed forward without purpose, but committed a mistake that killed their momentum. Neither Salah nor Isak could influence proceedings, and the Reds were unable to create any meaningful late opportunities as a consequence.
Galatasaray defended with determination and aggression, but their task was simplified by their visitors' sluggishness.
Alisson Injury Worries
To compound Liverpool's misery on a disappointing evening, it appears they will be without Alisson for the foreseeable future.
Liverpool's first-choice goalkeeper was substituted after making a save from Osimhen following a careless Ibrahima Konaté pass that epitomized their display.
The nature of Alisson's injury remains unclear, but he was visibly uncomfortable after collecting the Nigerian's attempt with an excellent low save. He was substituted by Giorgi Mamardashvili, who appears destined for an extended spell between the posts.
And considering how Liverpool have defended at the start of the new season, the Georgian keeper could face a hectic few weeks ahead.