Galatasaray star Baris Alper Yilmaz will be fit for the second leg against Liverpool, despite an injury in Tuesday evening’s 1-0 win, according to Now Spor commentator Veli Yiğit, via Haber Sari Kirmizi.
Yiğit reports that he has spoken to the 25-year-old after the game. Galatasaray beat Liverpool 1-0 in the first leg of their Champions League last 16 clash. An early goal from Mario Lemina separated the two sides.
Yılmaz started the game and played a significant role in the win. He was a constant threat on the right wing before being substituted in the 93rd minute.
His pace was a major issue for Liverpool’s defence, leading to yellow cards for Milos Kerkez and Virgil van Dijk. He was also part of the controversy ruling out Victor Osimhen’s goal, with VAR ruling that he had been offside in the build-up.
Baris Alper Yilmaz delivers impressive performance against Liverpool
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It was a battling performance throughout, shown by the knee injury that he picked up in the game. Galatasaray showed his war wounds in a post after the game alongside the hashtag #NeverGiveUp.
He received treatment on the pitch for that injury but later continued playing. It had initially caused some concern, but Veli Yiğit insists there is no concern. “I spoke with Barış Alper. He has no injury,” Veli Yiğit said.
Yilmaz‘s fitness for the second leg will certainly boost Galatasaray as they look to pull off a big win at Anfield. His availability means Galatasaray can field their strongest attacking lineup when they travel to England for the decisive second leg.
Galatasaray confident ahead of Anfield second leg
Liverpool’s performance in the first meeting will undoubtedly give them hope.
It has already been explained that the Turkish side buried Arne Slot’s team in that game. Indeed, the feeling is that a win at Anfield would lead to complaints from Liverpool. It has even been suggested that the Reds may send letters to UEFA if they lose the second leg as well.
Yılmaz would certainly love to be part of completing a memorable Champions League upset. His pace and directness caused Liverpool problems throughout the first leg. Having him fit and available for the return fixture gives Galatasaray a genuine threat on the counter-attack when Liverpool push forward at Anfield seeking the goals they need to progress.
Turkish side optimistic about Champions League progression
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Galatasaray’s dominant first-leg performance has given them genuine belief they can reach the Champions League quarter-finals. Liverpool struggled to create clear chances and looked vulnerable defensively.
The Turkish champions know they must defend resolutely at Anfield while remaining dangerous on the break.
Yilmaz’s fitness confirmation removes one potential concern for manager Okan Buruk. The winger’s ability to stretch defences and carry the ball at pace will be crucial when Galatasaray look to exploit spaces left by Liverpool’s attacking approach.
The second leg promises to be a tense affair with Galatasaray defending their slender advantage and Liverpool desperate to overturn the deficit.