Osimhen in trouble ahead of Liverpool clash
Reading Time: 2min | Tue. 10.03.26. | 17:40
The Nigerian will have to be very careful against the Reds
With their entrance into the Round of 16 of the Champions League, Galatasaray made a big step this season and the fans are thrilled with reason. But now a tough opponent is ahead. Liverpool is not as strong as last season and is fighting for a top 5 place in the Premier League but provide a strong opponent for the Turkish giant. The fact remains that Galatasaray already defeated the Reds in Europe this season (1-0 in September), but this time it will be much tougher. And apart from the opponent, coach Okan Buruk also has other problems beside the strength and tactics of the opponents – suspension worries.
When playing teams like Liverpool, maximum concentrations is required, as well as toughness and even a bit of aggression. But Buruk cannot do all that as he is about to play not one, but two games with Liverpool and Anfield can be a tough place to play, especially if you are without your best players, and Victor Osimhen is one of them. The Nigerian was the only scorer in a 1-0 over Liverpool back in September, and so far managed seven goals in eight matches in the Champions League (along with two assists), while his goal scoring record in the Turkish league is equally good – 11 goals in 18 games. But, he is in danger of being suspended for the Anfield trip if he gets a yellow card and he is not the only one.
Okan Buruk talked about it at the press conference as he faces a real dillema. Osimhen off course is not a part of that dilemma, he will play for sure, but will have to be very careful.
“There could have been a reduction regarding yellow cards for 10 matches. As it stands, yellow cards will be wiped clean in the semi-finals. UEFA absolutely needs to change this after the number of matches increases. Seven of our players are on the verge of suspension. The most difficult part for us is that four of our most frequently playing players in the same position in defense, our goalkeeper, and two attackers are on the verge. While playing this match in the best way possible, we will also do our best to avoid getting cards unnecessarily. I'm thinking about the players who are on the verge of receiving yellow cards, how I can reduce the risk” said the unhappy Buruk.
UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - ROUND OF 16
Tuesday
20.45: (4.30) Galatasaray (4.05) Liverpool (1.85)
23.00: (4.70) Atalanta (4.50) Bayern (1.70)
23.00: (1.73) Atl.Madrid (3.60) Tottenham (5.10)
23.00: (2.70) Newcastle (4.00) Barcelona (2.45)
Wednesday
20.45: (5.65) Leverkusen (4.30) Arsenal (1.62)
23.00: (2.60) Bodo (3.80) Sporting (2.65)
23.00: (2.00) PSG (3.60) Chelsea (4.00)
23.00: (3.50) Real Madrid (3.90) Man.City (2.05)
***odds are subject to change***