Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen was substituted at halftime of their UEFA Champions League last-16 second leg against Liverpool after sustaining a suspected arm fracture during the first half. The Nigerian international continued playing following an early collision but was replaced by Leroy Sané for the second period.
The injury occurred within the opening 45 minutes at Anfield. Despite the discomfort, Osimhen, a key figure for the Turkish champions, persisted until the interval. At the time of his withdrawal, Galatasaray trailed 1-0 on the night after a long-range strike from Liverpool midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai.
The result left the tie finely poised. Galatasaray travelled to England holding a 1-0 advantage from the first leg in Istanbul, meaning the aggregate score was level at 1-1 heading into the second half. Osimhen’s forced absence altered the dynamic for the visitors in their pursuit of a quarter-final berth.
Osimhen’s role as Galatasaray’s primary attacking threat made his departure a significant moment in the contest. The 25-year-old, who joined from Napoli last summer, has been instrumental for the Istanbul club this season. His physical presence and finishing are central to their European strategy.
The outcome of this tie will determine who faces Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League quarter-finals. The French champions await the victor, having already secured their place in the last eight. For Galatasaray, progressing would mark a return to the quarter-final stage for the first time in over a decade.
The match continues in Liverpool without its leading scorer, shifting the tactical onus onto supporting forwards and midfielders to navigate the final 45 minutes and any potential extra time. The medical update on Osimhen’s condition, particularly the confirmed nature of the arm injury and his availability for future club and international fixtures, will be closely monitored following the game.
