Osimhen Penalty Sinks Liverpool as Injuries and VAR Controversy Compound Champions League Defeat

Victor Osimhen’s first-half penalty was enough to condemn Liverpool to a second consecutive Champions League defeat, as Galatasaray secured a 1-0 victory in Istanbul on a frustrating night for Arne Slot’s side.

The loss marks back-to-back defeats for Liverpool for the second time under the Dutch manager and came with added concerns after injuries to goalkeeper Alisson Becker and striker Hugo Ekitike. The game also included a controversial VAR decision that denied Liverpool a potential late penalty.

Slot surprised many with his team selection, leaving Mohamed Salah and Alexander Isak on the bench, and opting to start Jeremie Frimpong on the right wing. Despite that, Liverpool’s defensive issues resurfaced early, with Dominik Szoboszlai struggling at right-back.

Galatasaray’s Baris Alper Yilmaz, who consistently troubled Liverpool’s right side, forced a good early save from Alisson before Liverpool wasted a golden opportunity at the other end. Ekitike failed to finish when played through on goal, slipping as he tried to round goalkeeper Ugurcan Cakir. Cody Gakpo’s follow-up was cleared off the line by Ismail Jakobs.

Just seconds later, Liverpool were punished. Yilmaz again beat Szoboszlai and was caught in the face by the defender’s arm inside the box. Referee Clément Turpin pointed to the spot, and Victor Osimhen calmly converted the penalty down the middle.

Liverpool pushed for an equaliser, but clear chances were limited. Salah and Isak were introduced in the second half, but their impact was minimal. The team’s frustration peaked late on when VAR declined to award a penalty for a possible handball, leaving the visitors with nothing to show for their efforts.

The night ended on a sour note with both Alisson and Ekitike leaving the pitch injured, adding to Liverpool’s growing concerns ahead of a busy schedule.

Despite creating more chances and leading the expected goals tally, Liverpool came away empty-handed once again. Slot now faces pressure to steady the ship as his side struggles for form both domestically and in Europe.