In an intense encounter, Galatasary claimed a precious 1-1 draw away at Hamburger SV. The hosts were basically dominant in the first half, but had their trouble as Galatasary played smart and efficient and took a 1 goal lead through Akman. Hamburg came on stronger in the 2nd half and much looked possible when Jansen equalized while the visitors got decimated when Asik got sent off. Hamburg missed some excellent chances to claim the win though as they had to settle for an unsatisfactory draw. This result makes Galatasaray rightful favorites to advance, but one should not discount the German side yet who have been doing excellent so far on the road in the Uefa Cup.

Hamburg had a promising start as they tried to gain control with early attacks, but Galatasaray were not impressed and smartly took the pace out of the host's play with longer spells of ball circulation. Still Hamburg came to some chances, but Trochowski and Guerrero both missed.  The visitors were more efficient and took the lead from their first good chance when Akman took advantage of a defensive error and opened the score with a well-placed shot. Hamburg tried to respond, but Petric failed eye to eye with goalkeeper Sanctis. Lincoln claimed a penalty in vain close before the break  from what was a dubious situation.

The hosts came out determined for the 2nd half and got rewarded soon when the ball came to Jansen who scored the equalizer with a fine volley. Galatasary almost replied instantly when Nonda missed target with a lobbed ball. The visitors got decimated after Asik committed a tactical foul on Petric. Hamburg firmly gained control now while Galatasaray were forced deep into defense. Chances came but Petric and Guerrero missed target. Time was running out while Hamburg squandered further good chances in the last minutes through Trochowski and Olic.

Overall the draw can be seen as deserved for Galatasaray based on an efficient and brave performance as they allowed the hosts no further goal while being a man down. Hamburg, who were mostly dominant, can blame themselves for lacking efficiency as they missed numerous chances to claim the win. This result makes Gala firm favorites to claim the place into the next round, but Hamburg should not be underestimated for the return leg.