Fenerbahçe’s 3-2 victory over Liverpool meant more than three points in Istanbul. It ended a wait of more than 18 years for a win in the Champions League proper, excluding qualifying rounds.

Their previous victory at that level came on 2 April 2008. Coached by Zico, Fenerbahçe beat Chelsea 2-1 in the home leg of their quarter-final. Goals from Kazım Kazım and Deivid completed a comeback that became one of the club’s defining European nights.

The following season brought two draws and four defeats in the group stage. Returning to the main competition in 2026-27, Fenerbahçe drew with Roma and Slavia Prague and lost to Aston Villa before hosting Liverpool.

The match that finally ended the wait delivered another comeback. Twice behind, Fenerbahçe responded through Greenwood and Archie Brown before Vedat Muriqi headed the winner in the 79th minute.

The victory under Dirk Kuyt lifted the team to five points in the league phase. Two English opponents and two Istanbul comebacks now connect the memories of 2008 with a new European night in 2026.