Liverpool F.C. fans blast a “disgraceful” performance as one player is labelled “shocking” after the defeat to Galatasaray S.K.. ⚽😡

In the first leg of their UEFA Champions League round-of-16 clash, Liverpool F.C. travelled to Turkey to face Galatasaray S.K.. It proved to be a difficult night for Arne Slot’s side, who were beaten 1–0 in Istanbul.

The two teams had previously met in September, when a 16th-minute penalty from Victor Osimhen decided the match. Liverpool finished second in the league phase after losing just twice, while Galatasaray ended 20th and reached the knockout stage by eliminating Juventus F.C. in the playoffs.

Back at Rams Park, the hosts initially looked nervous but took the lead after only seven minutes. Liverpool failed to properly clear a corner, allowing Mario Lemina to head home from close range.

The second half brought more drama, as both teams had goals ruled out in controversial fashion. Osimhen had a strike disallowed for offside, while Liverpool saw a goal chalked off after Ibrahima Konaté was judged to have handled the ball before it crossed the line. Ultimately, Lemina’s early goal proved decisive, giving Galatasaray a 1–0 advantage heading into the second leg.

Wirtz Endures Difficult Night

It was an especially frustrating game for Florian Wirtz, who missed several promising opportunities early on and was unable to make his chances count. Shortly after those missed openings, Lemina struck to put Galatasaray ahead.

The German forward struggled throughout the match, registering three shots without scoring and missing one clear opportunity. Substituted after 72 minutes, he completed just 71% of his 28 attempted passes and lost possession 14 times. His 6.3 rating from SofaScore was the lowest among players on the pitch.

Wirtz started the match on the left wing, but Slot may consider using him in a more central role in the return leg. After such a disappointing performance in Turkey, however, it remains uncertain whether he will even start the second match.

Liverpool Fans React

Following the defeat, many Liverpool supporters voiced strong criticism of Wirtz on social media. Some questioned whether he has justified his transfer fee, while others expressed frustration with the team’s overall midfield performance.

Several fans labelled the display one of his worst since joining the club, with others saying he looked completely ineffective before being substituted. The general mood among supporters was one of disappointment after a night where Liverpool struggled to impose themselves. ⚽