Galatasaray star Baris Alper Yilmaz will be fit for the second leg against Liverpool, despite picking up an injury in Tuesday evening's 1-0 win.
This is according to Now Spor commentator Veli Yigit via Haber Sari Kirmizi. He told that he spoke to the 25-year-old player after the game.
Galatasaray beat Liverpool 1-0 yesterday in the first leg of the Champions League last 16 tie. Mario Lemina's early goal separated the two sides.
Yilmaz started the game and played a key role in the victory. He was a constant threat to the team on the right wing before being substituted in the 93rd minute. His pace was a major issue for Liverpool's defence, leading to yellow cards for Milos Kerkez and Virgil van Dijk.
impressive performance
He was also part of the controversy that saw Victor Osimhen's goal ruled out, with VAR ruling that he was offside in the build-up.
It was a struggling performance throughout, evidenced by the knee injury he suffered during the game. Galatasaray showed off his battle wounds in a post with the hashtag #NeverGiveUp after the game.
He received treatment on the field for that injury but continued playing afterwards. Initially this caused some concern, but Veli Yigit says there is no need to worry.
Yilmaz! #never give up 💛❤️ pic.twitter.com/EkqU20qivJ
— Galatasaray SK (@GalatasaraySK) 11 March 2026
Player's message regarding fitness
"I talked to Baris Alpar. He's not hurt." Veli Yigit said.
Yilmaz's fitness for the second leg will certainly give Galatasaray a boost as they look to pick up a big win at Anfield.
Liverpool's performance in the first meeting will undoubtedly give them hope. It has already been made clear that the Turkish side 'buried' Arne Slott's team in that game.
In fact, the feeling is that a win at Anfield will only increase Liverpool's complaints. It has also been suggested that The Reds may send a letter to UEFA If they also lose the second leg. We are sure Yilmaz would love to be a part of this event.
