Galatasaray reach UCL last 16 with 7-5 aggregate win
Galatasaray advanced to the UEFA Champions League last 16 on aggregate despite a 3-2 extra-time defeat to Juventus in the second leg of their playoff tie on Wednesday.
Holding a commanding 5-2 advantage from the first leg, the Turkish side secured progression with a 7-5 aggregate score after a dramatic night at Allianz Stadium in Turin.
Juventus started strongly and took the lead in the 37th minute when Manuel Locatelli converted a penalty. The Italian side extended its advantage in the second half through Federico Gatti in the 70th minute and Weston McKennie in the 82nd, forcing extra time despite being reduced to 10 men earlier in the match.
Galatasaray responded in extra time, with Victor Osimhen scoring in the 105th minute to make it 3-1 on the night. Barış Alper Yılmaz added another in the 119th minute, sealing a 3-2 result in Turin but ensuring the Istanbul club progressed on aggregate.
Recep Tayyip Erdoğan congratulates team
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan congratulated Galatasaray following the match, speaking by phone with head coach Okan Buruk and players after the final whistle.
“Galatasaray have advanced. This is a great success for our country,” Erdoğan said, according to statements released after the game.
Youth and Sports Minister Osman Aşkın Bak also visited the dressing room to congratulate the team.
Galatasaray’s qualification marks a significant achievement for Turkish football, as the club moves into the knockout stage of Europe’s premier club competition.
