Turkish champions Galatasaray will be without the backing of their travelling supporters for their upcoming UEFA Champions League clash at Liverpool, after UEFA’s Appeals Body upheld sanctions imposed on the club.
The punishment stems from crowd trouble during Galatasaray’s recent trip to Juventus in Turin.
UEFA confirmed that away fans will not be allowed to purchase tickets for this month’s encounter at Anfield, following incidents involving the throwing of objects, the lighting of fireworks, and disturbances inside the stadium.
Media reports from Italy indicated that a man and his daughter sustained injuries after a firework was hurled toward the home section during the heated playoff encounter.
The dramatic tie saw Juventus, reduced to 10 men, overturn a three-goal deficit from a 5-2 first-leg loss to force extra time in front of their supporters.
Despite the chaos, Galatasaray held their nerve, scoring twice in extra time to seal qualification for the Round of 16 with a thrilling 7-5 aggregate victory.
In addition to the away fan ban, UEFA’s disciplinary committee fined the Turkish side €40,000 ($46,000) for the misconduct of their supporters.
Galatasaray lodged an appeal against the sanctions, but the Appeals Body rejected it on Wednesday, confirming the punishment will stand.
The first leg between Liverpool and Galatasaray is set to take place at Anfield this month, with the return fixture scheduled for March 18 in Istanbul.
The absence of travelling Galatasaray fans in England is expected to slightly alter the atmosphere for what promises to be a high-stakes Champions League showdown.
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