Batrakov Scores as Galatasaray Beat Lille

Galatasaray returned to winning ways in France by defeating Lille, following their defeats to Sporting and Barcelona in the Champions League. The goal came in the closing moments of the first half, giving the yellow-red side both a scoreline advantage and a boost in morale.

The goal was scored by Aleksey Batrakov, who joined the squad this summer. The club paid 25 million euros in transfer fees for the 21-year-old playmaker. His contract contains a 55 million euro release clause. Over the last four matches, the Russian player has contributed directly with two goals and one assist.

Batrakov started the attacks that led to his last-minute goal against Gençlerbirliği, and recorded an assist in the match against Kasımpaşa. Head coach Okan Buruk is said to have largely filled the creative midfield player the side needed. His high passing accuracy and ability to control the tempo of the game have also kept the gap left by Dries Mertens, who departed last season, from being felt.

In a short time at the Kemerburgaz Training Facilities, Batrakov has won the affection of teammates and fans alike. At the end of the match, he shared the victory with the stands by performing a triple celebration toward the supporters.

Meanwhile, Galatasaray's transfer negotiations this summer, as in Batrakov's case, were conducted directly between the player's representative and the club president.