Galatasaray are exploring legal options against UEFA following a serious injury to forward Noa Lang during their Champions League round of 16 second leg defeat to Liverpool on Wednesday March 18 2026. The Turkish club's general secretary Eray Yazga confirmed they filed a complaint with UEFA representatives and plan to pursue compensation claims.

Lang sustained a severe right thumb injury in the 76th minute after colliding with pitch-side advertising hoardings at Anfield. The 26-year-old was stretchered off in visible distress receiving oxygen before hospital treatment. Liverpool players including Alisson Becker and Virgil van Dijk offered immediate support. Eye-witness Jeremie Frimpong later revealed concerns that part of Lang's finger had been torn.

The Dutch international underwent emergency surgery in Liverpool. Despite the trauma Lang posted a reassuring message on social media stating the operation went well. Galatasaray medical staff confirmed the procedure and indicated further evaluations would determine next steps.

The incident occurred during Liverpool's dominant 4-0 victory which secured a 4-1 aggregate progression to the quarter finals. Goals from Dominik Szoboszlai Hugo Ekitike Ryan Gravenberch and Mo Salah sealed the win though the match was overshadowed by the injury drama.

Galatasaray also confirmed striker Victor Osimhen suffered a fractured right forearm in the first half and was withdrawn at halftime as a precaution. Hospital examinations confirmed the fracture and a cast was applied with surgical decisions pending further assessment.

UEFA released a statement confirming review of the pitch-side setup including LED advertising boards at future matches. The governing body expressed wishes for Lang's full and swift recovery while investigations continue.

Anfield staff inspected the area where the incident occurred though it remains unclear whether the hoarding presented a safety issue or if the event was an unavoidable accident.