Liverpool vs Galatasaray: Predictions, Betting Tips and Preview

18th March 2026

One-all. At Anfield. With everything still to play for.

Liverpool went to Istanbul in the first leg and came back with a 1-1 draw – a result that feels fine on paper but masks some uncomfortable truths. Galatasaray are not a team that rolls over. This second leg is genuinely open.

The Numbers – and They’re Surprising

Liverpool are projected 2.0 goals tonight. Galatasaray are projected 2.7. Read that again.

The model has the Turkish side edging Liverpool on goals, shots on target (6.2 vs 5.6) and yellow cards (2.0 vs 1.1). Liverpool lead on possession (55.6% vs 57.7% – actually Galatasaray edge that too) and corners (6.9 vs 5.8). Shots are level at 16.7 each.

This is not the dominant Liverpool walkover the Anfield faithful will be expecting. Galatasaray, with Victor Osimhen leading the line, are a genuine threat. His shot numbers from the lineup data are exceptional – consistently among the highest of any player on the pitch.

The Key Matchup

Osimhen vs Liverpool’s centre-backs is the tie within the tie. Konate and Van Dijk are experienced enough, but Osimhen’s movement and physical presence causes problems for anyone. If he fires tonight, Galatasaray go through.

For Liverpool, Salah leads the attack with Wirtz and Ekitike either side – pace and directness. Szoboszlai and Mac Allister in the middle will control the tempo if Liverpool get on top. Gravenberch anchors. It’s a strong XI.

The danger is that Liverpool assume this is a formality. It isn’t. Liverpool’s shot numbers are good but not dominant, and Galatasaray will arrive at Anfield with no fear and a genuine belief they can go through.

The Betting Angle

Liverpool to win the match is the call – Anfield advantage, Arne Slot’s side are well-drilled at home, and they know how to win knockout games. But the odds might not reflect just how competitive this is. Both teams to score looks strong given both sides are projected over 2.0 goals.

Osimhen to have 2+ shots on target is a serious look given his form numbers. Check the Statz Bet Builder for his current hit rate and odds.

Yellow cards: Galatasaray project 2.0 – their card data makes a Galatasaray player booking a decent angle at the right price.

Sam’s Tip

Liverpool to win, both teams to score. Anfield should see Liverpool through – but don’t sleep on Osimhen. This is a proper game.

Predicted Lineups

Liverpool (4-3-3): Mamardashvili; Gomez, Konate, Van Dijk, Kerkez; Gravenberch, Mac Allister, Szoboszlai; Salah, Ekitike, Wirtz

Galatasaray (4-2-3-1): Cakir; Singo, Bardakci, Sanchez, Jakobs; Torreira, Lemina; Lang, Sara, Yilmaz; Osimhen