VAR Disallows Galatasaray Goal Before Cancelo Levels for Barcelona

Barcelona avoided falling two goals behind against Galatasaray after a VAR review overturned a goal in the 34th minute of their UEFA Champions League league-phase clash on Tuesday. The decision preserved Barcelona's chances of recovering from an early deficit, and Joao Cancelo equalized in the 43rd minute following a pass from Dani Olmo. According to Goal's match report published on October 13, 2026, Aleksei Batrakov had given Galatasaray the lead in the 28th minute.

The Turkish side then appeared to extend its advantage six minutes later, but the intervention of video technology kept the score at 1-0. Galatasaray threatened again when Victor Osimhen headed toward goal from a corner. Albert Yilmaz touched the ball before it crossed the line, prompting celebrations among the home supporters before the officials ruled the goal out for offside following a review.

The decision prevented Galatasaray from establishing a two-goal cushion and left Barcelona with an opportunity to respond before halftime. The hosts had applied sustained pressure, forcing the Catalan side to work their way back into the contest.

Barcelona capitalized on the reprieve shortly before the interval. Dani Olmo delivered a precise through ball, allowing Cancelo to finish with one touch in the 43rd minute and restore parity. The equalizer completed Barcelona's recovery from a difficult opening period and ensured the teams entered halftime level at 1-1. Galatasaray had taken the lead through Batrakov, but its disallowed second goal proved decisive in shaping the scoreline before the break.