Istanbul
Tottenham Hotspur’s winning streak in the Europa League ended in a high-intensity 3-2 defeat to Galatasaray on Thursday night, who came from behind in Istanbul. Victor Osimhen’s brace was instrumental in the Turkish club’s victory, while Spurs’ young striker Will Lankshear experienced a bittersweet night, netting his first goal before being sent off in the second half.
Galatasaray seized an early lead when Yunus Akgun’s powerful half-volley found the net just six minutes in. Tottenham quickly responded in the 18th minute, with Brennan Johnson setting up Lankshear’s debut goal, leveling the score and providing a boost to the visitors.
Osimhen, however, restored Galatasaray’s lead in the 39th minute, connecting with a clever pass from Dries Mertens to put his team ahead. The tension escalated when Lankshear, already on a yellow card, was dismissed for a second bookable offense in the 60th minute, forcing Tottenham to finish the match with ten men.
Despite the setback, substitute Dominic Solanke reignited Spurs’ hopes with a back-heel goal in the 69th minute. Tottenham pressed for a late equalizer to keep their unbeaten streak alive, but ultimately fell short.
With this loss, Tottenham now sits in second place in Group A with nine points, just one behind Galatasaray, who remain unbeaten in the competition.
