UCL: Galatasaray rally to hold Atletico Madrid

Galatasaray came from behind to earn a 1-1 draw against Atletico Madrid in the Champions League, a result that keeps both sides firmly in the qualification race.

The visitors silenced the hostile Istanbul crowd early, taking the lead inside four minutes.

Davinson Sanchez misjudged a defensive clearance, allowing Matteo Ruggeri to deliver from the left, and Giuliano Simeone rose unmarked to head past the goalkeeper from close range.

The goal briefly shifted momentum Atletico’s way, but Galatasaray responded with greater intensity and composure.

Own goal swings momentum

The hosts drew level in the 20th minute through a fortunate but decisive moment.

Roland Sallai fired a low cross into the penalty area from the right, and Marcos Llorente, facing his own goal and under little pressure, slid the ball into his own net.

The equaliser lifted Galatasaray and reignited the atmosphere inside the stadium, forcing Atletico to reassess their approach as the match became more open.

Victor Osimhen who recently returned from the Africa Cup of Nations struggled to impose himself in the game as he was tightly marked by Atletico defense.

Qualification race tightens

Atletico created the clearer chances as the game wore on, pushing for a winner that would have secured qualification.

Substitute Antoine Griezmann came closest late on, but his free-kick was well saved by Galatasaray goalkeeper Ugurcan Cakir.

The draw leaves Atletico Madrid on 13 points from seven matches. Victory at home against Bodo/Glimt next week would confirm their place in the round of 16.

Galatasaray, now on 10 points, head into their final league-phase match away to Manchester City knowing a win guarantees a play-off spot, while a draw could still be enough depending on results elsewhere.