Galatasaray will take a three goal lead to Turin

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Galatasaray 5 - 2 Juventus 

Galatasaray will head to Turin with a commanding lead after a breathless comeback victory over Juventus in the first leg of their Champions League knockout phase play-off.

Author | Ed

Stadium | RAMS Park



The Istanbul side trailed 2-1 at the interval but responded with authority after the break, turning the tie on its head to move 3-2 ahead by the hour through strikes from Noa Lang and Davinson Sánchez.

Juventus had earlier mounted an impressive revival of their own, Teun Koopmeiners scoring twice in a 17-minute first-half spell after Gabriel Sara had given the hosts an early lead.

Any hopes of restoring control evaporated in the second half. 

Juan Cabal, introduced at the interval, was dismissed just 21 minutes later for a second booking, leaving the visitors short-handed and increasingly vulnerable.

Galatasaray sensed the opportunity and pressed relentlessly. Lang capitalised on slack defending to claim his second of the night before Sacha Boey struck late on, sealing a fifth goal that leaves Okan Buruk’s side firmly in charge ahead of the return leg.

A memorable atmosphere

Galatasaray fans have been known for their amazing and often hostile atmosphere and last night was up their with their best. The scenes before, during and after this special night will be spoken about for years. Especially if they finish the job in Turin.

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