Galatasaray 0–3 Venezia | International Club Friendly | 28 July 2026

Venezia delivered an emphatic 3-0 victory over Turkish giants Galatasaray in a pre-season friendly played behind closed doors in Istanbul. The Italian Serie B side, preparing for their upcoming campaign, thoroughly outplayed their hosts, who looked off the pace in their preparation for the new Süper Lig season.

Match Overview

The match was dominated by Venezia from the first whistle. Galatasaray, still integrating several new signings, struggled to find rhythm. The visitors took the lead in the 18th minute through a well-worked team move finished by striker Francesco Forte. Venezia doubled their advantage just before half-time when winger Dennis Johnsen curled a beautiful strike into the top corner from 20 yards.

Key Moments

• 18' Goal (0-1): Forte taps in from close range after a low cross from the right.
• 44' Goal (0-2): Johnsen's superb left-footed effort leaves Galatasaray goalkeeper Fernando Muslera rooted.
• 56' Goal (0-3): Substitute Gianluca Busio powers a header from a corner kick to seal the rout.
• 71' Missed penalty: Galatasaray's Mauro Icardi saw his spot-kick saved by Venezia's Jesse Joronen.

Tactical Story

Venezia head coach Paolo Vanoli deployed a disciplined 3-5-2, pressing high and forcing Galatasaray into errors. The Galatasaray midfield of Lucas Torreira and Berkan Kutlu were overrun by Venezia's energetic trio, while the home defence looked disorganised, particularly on set pieces. Galatasaray's best chance came from a penalty after a VAR check, but Icardi's weak effort was easily saved.

Standout Players

• Dennis Johnsen (Venezia): A constant threat on the left wing, scoring a stunning goal and providing the assist for the third.
• Francesco Forte (Venezia): Led the line superbly, taking his goal well and holding up play.
• Jesse Joronen (Venezia): Made several fine saves, including the penalty stop, keeping a clean sheet.

Season Impact

For Galatasaray, this friendly result is a worrying sign ahead of their Süper Lig opener. Coach Okan Buruk will need to address defensive frailties and lack of creativity. Venezia, meanwhile, will be encouraged by a dominant performance that suggests they could challenge for promotion from Serie B this season. The friendly served as useful preparation for both sides, with the focus now shifting to competitive fixtures.