Liverpool’s Champions League progression came at a cost for Galatasaray, not only in terms of the scoreline – a 4-0 second-leg defeat at Anfield – but also through significant injuries to key players. Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen sustained a fractured right forearm during Wednesday’s match, the Turkish club confirmed Thursday, while teammate Noa Lang requires surgery for a severe thumb injury.
The news is a significant blow to Galatasaray, who had hoped to defend their narrow 1-0 first-leg advantage. Osimhen, who has seven Champions League goals this season, was forced off at halftime after initially playing through the pain. A club statement detailed that examinations revealed the fracture and a cast has been applied. A decision regarding potential surgery will be made in the coming days following further assessments.
Lang’s injury occurred in the 80th minute after a collision with the advertising boards behind Liverpool’s goal, resulting in a severe cut to his right thumb. Galatasaray confirmed he will undergo surgery in Liverpool “in the coming hours.”
The double injury setback compounded a disappointing night for the Turkish champions, who were thoroughly outplayed by Liverpool, losing 4-0 and 4-1 on aggregate in the Round of 16 tie. Liverpool’s goals came from Dominik Szoboszlai, Hugo Ekitike, Ryan Gravenberch, and Mohamed Salah.
The timing of Osimhen’s injury is particularly unfortunate for Galatasaray, as the Nigerian international has been a key figure in their attack this season. His absence will undoubtedly be felt as they navigate the remainder of their domestic campaign. The club has not yet provided a timeline for his return, pending the results of further examinations and a decision on whether surgery is required.
Adding to the drama of the match, there was an earlier incident involving Osimhen and Liverpool players. Following an injury in the opening minutes, Osimhen appeared to clash with Dominik Szoboszlai, nearly escalating into a physical altercation. The situation was diffused by Galatasaray midfielder Mario Lemina, with Virgil van Dijk, Alexis Mac Allister, and Mohamed Salah also becoming involved. Reports indicated Osimhen was unhappy with Liverpool players urging him to return to the pitch quickly.
Galatasaray manager Okan Buruk also expressed dissatisfaction with the officiating, criticizing the stand-in referee Pawel Raczkowski, who stepped in after Szymon Marciniak sustained an injury during the warm-up. Buruk felt the change in officials negatively impacted his team’s performance. He specifically pointed to Osimhen’s injury as a turning point, suggesting the striker was hampered by discomfort in his arm even before being substituted.
The injuries to Osimhen and Lang represent a significant challenge for Galatasaray as they look to maintain their position in the Turkish Süper Lig and continue their pursuit of domestic honors. The club will be hoping for swift recoveries for both players, but the extent of their absences remains uncertain.
Galatasaray will provide further updates on the condition of both players as they turn into available. Fans will be anxiously awaiting news on their recovery timelines, hoping to see both Osimhen and Lang back on the pitch as soon as possible.
Next up for Liverpool is a Premier League fixture against Manchester United on March 23rd. Galatasaray returns to domestic action on March 24th against Antalyaspor.
