Image Credits: Imago Images
Liverpool’s preparations for their Champions League round of 16 with Galatasaray has received an unexpected boost.
Arne Slot’s men were paired with the Turkish giants in last week’s draw in Switzerland, with the pathway to the final also being revealed due to the format of the competition.
While it seems to be an easier draw on paper compared to the other option which was Atletico Madrid, the Reds have now received an unexpected boost for the two-legged tie.
Galatasaray have officially confirmed that they have received UEFA sanctions due to serious crowd trouble during Galatasaray’s play-off second leg away to Juventus on February 25, when objects were thrown, fireworks were set off and clashes with police were reported outside the Allianz Stadium.
As a result, the club has been fined 40,000 euros and will not be able to have supporters for their next away game in the Champions League.
A statement on Galatasaray’s website reads:
“On 25.02.2026, due to fan incidents in the UEFA Champions League match against Juventus away, the UEFA Disciplinary Committee has decided to impose a fine of 40,000 euros on our club and to play without spectators in the next away match.”
“An appeal will be made against the said decision before the UEFA Arbitration Board.”
“We present it to the public.”
The punishment means Galatasaray supporters will be barred from attending the second leg at Anfield later this month, making the home ground advantage count even more.
For Arne Slot’s side, that removes one of the more intimidating elements of the tie, with the Turkish champions renowned for generating a ferocious atmosphere home and away.
Galatasaray have vowed to fight the verdict, but with UEFA’s Appeals Body already rejecting their initial challenge, the chances of the sanction being overturned before the Liverpool game appear remote.
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