Champions League team news, form, head-to-head and live broadcast details
Galatasaray and Atlético Madrid meet in a crucial Champions League league stage clash on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, at RAMS Park in Istanbul as both sides look to secure valuable points in the competition’s final group fixtures. Atlético arrive seeking consistency and progression, while Galatasaray, boosted by the return of Victor Osimhen, are eager to defend home turf and bolster their hopes of advancing. Kick-off is scheduled for 18:45 CET, which corresponds to 17:45 GMT and 12:45pm ET.
With both sides enduring mixed form and facing challenges on the European stage, Wednesday’s encounter promises tension, tactical discipline and key moments from each end of the pitch.
How the teams go into the game: form
Galatasaray’s recent overall form has been mixed. Domestically, they are top of the Turkish Super Lig, one point clear of Fenerbahçe, who recently beat them to the Turkish Super Cup on January 10.
The return of striker Victor Osimhen from the Africa Cup of Nations is a major boost for their attack, with the Nigeria international having scored six goals in four Champions League matches this season – a return that has kept Galatasaray competitive in the league phase.
However, their Champions League record stands at three wins and three defeats, leaving them positioned around the playoff spots and needing a strong result to solidify their ambitions.
In contrast, Atlético Madrid are enjoying relatively stronger form. In the last five matches across all competitions, Atlético have secured three wins, one draw and one defeat, including a recent 1-0 victory over Deportivo Alavés in LaLiga.
Their Champions League campaign has seen four wins and two defeats, enough for an automatic qualification spot at this stage.
Galatasaray vs Atlético Madrid: head-to-head
The historical head-to-head between these two sides favours Atlético Madrid. In their previous four competitive meetings, Atlético have never lost, recording three wins and one draw against Galatasaray.
While Galatasaray hunt a first victory over their Spanish opponents, Atlético’s record against Turkish sides – including six wins in seven away matches – strengthens their case as favourites, albeit in a fixture that could be decided by fine margins.
Galatasaray vs Atlético Madrid: team news
Galatasaray will be without Metehan Baltacı (suspended), Gabriel Sara (knee) and Arda Ünyay (thigh), limiting head coach Okan Buruk’s options. Wilfried Singo requires assessment due to a hamstring concern. The big positive for the hosts is the expected availability of Victor Osimhen, who returns after AFCON duty.
Osimhen’s presence gives Galatasaray a focal point in attack, with Leroy Sané and Barış Alper Yılmaz likely to provide support in behind.
Atlético Madrid are missing Clément Lenglet and Nico González through injury. Otherwise, boss Diego Simeone has a largely healthy squad to select from. Julian Álvarez is likely to lead the line, and Koke and Álex Baena may be introduced to add midfield control.
Jan Oblak will start in goal, with Nahuel Molina, Marc Pubill and Dávid Hancko available in defence.
Galatasaray vs Atlético Madrid: Predicted line-ups
Galatasaray predicted line–up: Cakir, Elmali, Sanchez, Sallai, Bardakci, Torreira, Lemina, Sane, Yilmaz, Akgun, Osimhen
Atletico Madrid predicted line–up: Oblak, Marcos Llorente, Pubill, Hancko, Ruggeri, Giuliano Simeone, Barrios, Koke, Baena, Julian Alvarez, Sorloth
Galatasaray vs Atlético Madrid: when and where to watch in US & UK
In the United Kingdom, the match will be broadcast live on BT Sport 2, with coverage beginning shortly before the 17:45 GMT kick-off. The game will also be available via the BT Sport app.
In the United States, the fixture will be shown live on Paramount+, with streaming starting ahead of the 12:45pm ET kick-off. Viewers should check local listings for any additional coverage options.