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Galatasaray’s poor European form continued as the Turkish giants faced a heavy 5-1 defeat away to Eintracht Frankfurt in the UEFA Champions League group stage opener.
The loss adds to a troubling pattern: Galatasaray has won only one of its last 18 group-stage matches in the Champions League, drawing five and losing 11. The team has also failed to secure a victory in its last seven UEFA fixtures, including matches in the Europa League, showing a clear struggle on the continental stage.
European away matches have been particularly challenging. Galatasaray has not won in its last 10 continental road games, with the previous away win dating back to the 2023-24 Champions League season against Manchester United. During this period, the club scored 12 goals but conceded 26, highlighting defensive vulnerabilities.
Despite a strong defensive record in the Süper Lig, Galatasaray’s backline often collapses in Europe. Coach Okan Buruk’s system relies on disciplined defending, but higher tempo and physicality from European opponents create gaps.
Goalkeeper Ugurcan Cakir, signed for over €30 million ($35.29 million), has faced criticism after conceding 11 goals in two major international matches, including six against Spain and five against Frankfurt. Expectations were high for the Turkish international, but these performances show the challenges of European competition.
The contrast between domestic and European results raises questions about whether Galatasaray’s system truly works or only benefits from the lower intensity of Türkiye’s Super Lig. In Europe, opponents attack more directly, exposing both tactical and psychological weaknesses.
The heavy investment in Ugurcan, totaling €36 million with bonuses, has not yet yielded the expected results, making goalkeeping a central issue for Galatasaray’s European ambitions.
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