Batrakov Shines for Galatasaray and Scores Against Lille

Galatasaray, after heavy defeats against Sporting and Barcelona, pushed Lille hard away from home in France and breathed new life into their Champions League campaign. The equalizing goal that came at the end of the first half gave the yellow-and-red side a boost in confidence. The goal was scored by the club's new signing, Aleksey Batrakov.

The Russian player has started to deliver on the 25 million euro fee paid for his transfer. Contributing to the scoreline three times in the last four matches, Batrakov is drawing attention with two goals and one assist. His passing accuracy and the way he directs play are also seen as a solution to Okan Buruk's search for a number ten.

Batrakov brings to mind Dries Mertens, who was with the club during Galatasaray's three championship seasons in recent years. Last season, comments were made that this gap could not be filled, and the 21-year-old's performance has brought those debates back to the fore.

At the final whistle, Batrakov applauded the fans and shared their celebration three times, and he enjoys great affection in Kemerburgaz as well. Whether the young player will keep his place in the squad for the upcoming Fenerbahçe derby is a matter of curiosity.