Eintracht Frankfurt thrash Galatasaray
Eintracht Frankfurt 5 - 1 Galatasaray
Eintracht Frankfurt recovered from an early setback to secure a commanding win over Galatasaray in their Champions League opener.
Author | Ed
Stadium | Deutsche Bank Park
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| Pre-match scenes |
In a raucous atmosphere, the visitors struck first after only eight minutes. Former Manchester City winger Leroy Sané won possession in his own half, surged forward and slipped in Yunus Akgün, who finished neatly into the bottom corner.
Frankfurt, however, turned the game on its head with three goals in the space of 12 minutes before the interval. Davinson Sánchez was unfortunate to turn the ball into his own net after Ugurcan Çakir had parried Ritsu Dōan’s effort.
Moments later, 19-year-old Turkey international Can Uzan scored against his country’s champions with an instinctive strike on the turn. On the stroke of half-time Galatasaray conceded a second own goal, Wilfried Singo heading past his own goalkeeper while attempting to clear a free-kick.
The home side continued to dominate after the break. Jonathan Burkardt made it 4-1 with a well-placed header midway through the second half before Ansgar Knauff added a fifth, capitalising after Elye Wahi had robbed Gabriel Sala of possession.
The result leaves Frankfurt top of the 36-team league phase at the end of the opening round of fixtures. Galatasaray, featuring former City midfielder Ilkay Gündogan, slipped to their first defeat since 29 March, ending a run of 13 straight victories in competitive matches.
Next up, the Turkish champions host Premier League leaders Liverpool on 30 September, while Frankfurt travel to Atlético Madrid.
Best reaction
One fan posted on X: "It was a game like a painting, an homage to the passion and enthusiasm of football, to the childlike joy this sport can evoke in both the young and the old.”
Another added: "Magical night. Champions League nights are back!"
