Liverpool boss Arne Slot admits Victor Osimhen injury tilted tie as club edge Galatasaray

Liverpool head coach Arne Slot has acknowledged that the injury to Victor Osimhen played a decisive role in his side’s commanding victory over Galatasaray in the UEFA Champions League.

The Reds delivered a ruthless performance at Anfield, securing a 4-0 win to book their place in the quarterfinals. However, the contest took a significant turn early in the encounter when Galatasaray’s talisman, Osimhen, suffered an injury that ultimately curtailed his influence on the game.

The Nigerian striker picked up the knock as early as the 9th minute and was visibly struggling to impose himself before being withdrawn at halftime. His absence left Galatasaray blunt in attack, stripping them of their primary goal threat and allowing Liverpool to dictate proceedings with greater freedom in the second half.

Liverpool capitalized fully, pressing with intensity, controlling possession, and exploiting the spaces left behind by a shaken Galatasaray side. Without Osimhen’s physical presence, pace, and clinical edge, the Turkish champions found it difficult to relieve pressure or mount meaningful attacking sequences.

Speaking after the match, Slot was candid in his assessment, admitting that while he sympathized with the player, the situation worked to Liverpool’s advantage.

“Osimhen is an incredible player. His injury worked in our favor. It is not nice to see a player get injured, but he has shown many times how dangerous he can be in front of goal,” Slot said.

The Dutch tactician’s comments underline the respect Osimhen commands across European football, as well as the significant impact his absence can have on high-level matches. Known for his explosive runs, aerial dominance, and finishing ability, the 27-year-old has been a key figure for Galatasaray, particularly in crucial fixtures.

For Galatasaray, the defeat was compounded not only by the heavy scoreline but also by the potential long-term absence of their star forward, whose fitness now becomes a major concern heading into the decisive phase of the season.

As for Liverpool, the result reinforces their credentials as serious contenders in this year’s Champions League, with momentum firmly on their side as they advance deeper into the competition.