Osimhen Hints Galatasaray Would Prefer to Avoid Liverpool in Champions League Last 16

Story: Written by springnewsng February 26,2026
Victor Osimhen has revealed he would rather Galatasaray avoid a clash with Liverpool in Friday’s UEFA Champions League last-16 draw.
The Turkish champions reached the knockout stage after a dramatic extra-time victory over Juventus on Wednesday, overturning a three-goal deficit to progress 7–5 on aggregate. Osimhen scored a crucial penalty in extra time, while Baris Alper Yilmaz added a second to seal Galatasaray’s spot in the round of 16.
Galatasaray could now face either Liverpool or Tottenham Hotspur. Although the Istanbul side defeated Liverpool 1–0 earlier this season thanks to Osimhen’s first-half penalty, the Nigerian striker admitted facing the Premier League leaders again would be a huge challenge.
“Honestly, playing Liverpool now would feel like revenge,” Osimhen told CBS Sports. “Anyone we meet at this stage is tough, but I’d prefer to avoid Liverpool. If we do face them, we’ll give everything, but it won’t be easy. This is the Champions League; you have to take on the big teams to prove yourself. We’ve beaten Liverpool before, but not at Anfield. If it happens, it’s going to be an incredible match. We’re ready to fight.”
Osimhen’s comments highlight Galatasaray’s cautious optimism as they await Friday’s draw, aware that the Champions League last 16 promises high stakes and intense competition.