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Galatasaray Edges Liverpool 1-0, VAR Denies Equalizer

3/11/2026

31 2 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Galatasaray beat Liverpool 1-0 in the first leg of the Champions League round-of-16, as Mario Lemina scored from a corner.
This was Galatasaray's second win against Liverpool this season.
VAR ruled out Liverpool's equalizer for a handball by Ibrahima Konaté.
Mohamed Salah (Liverpool forward) set a record for Champions League appearances with 81 and was substituted.
Liverpool must overturn the deficit in the second leg at Anfield on March 18.

History

Historical Context

Established in 1955 as the European Cup, the UEFA Champions League transformed in 1992 with a new format allowing more teams to compete. This change intensified rivalries, exemplified by Liverpool's six titles and Galatasaray's 2000 victory. The tournament has since shaped club strategies and fan engagement, reflecting the evolving landscape of European football.

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Story summary

Galatasaray beat Liverpool 1-0 in the first leg of the Champions League round-of-16, as Mario Lemina scored from a corner.
This was Galatasaray's second win against Liverpool this season.
VAR ruled out Liverpool's equalizer for a handball by Ibrahima Konaté.
Mohamed Salah (Liverpool forward) set a record for Champions League appearances with 81 and was substituted.
Liverpool must overturn the deficit in the second leg at Anfield on March 18.

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