Football

Turkey's impressive run at UEFA Euro 2024 has earned them newfound respect, according to coach Vincenzo Montella. Despite their quarter-final elimination by the Netherlands, Turkey's performance has left a lasting impression.Reaching the last eight of a major tournament for the first time since 2008, Turkey stunned the Dutch with an early goal from Samet Akaydin. However, Stefan de Vrij's equalizer and Murt Muldur's own goal ultimately proved decisive."The team played with a great spirit, a Turkish spirit," said Montella. "In spite of the defeat, the Turkish people love us."Montella praised his players for making Turkey proud and believes their performance will change perceptions of the team in the future. "After this Euros, Turkey will be seen with different eyes, probably with more respect," he said.Despite the disappointment of losing their lead, Montella refused to criticize his team. "It's better in this moment to highlight what has gone well," he insisted. "We won three games at a Euros, so we matched the Turkish record."One of Turkey's standout performers was Real Madrid's Arda Guler. The 19-year-old set up the goal against the Netherlands and scored a brilliant one in their opening win over Georgia."He played a great Euros," said Montella. "He's not 20 yet, the future is bright for him, and this experience will make him a far better player."Turkey's elimination marks the end of a memorable tournament for the team. Their spirited performances and impressive results have earned them the respect of their opponents and fans alike.

The 2024 European Championship has reached its penultimate stage, with four teams remaining in contention for the coveted trophy. Spain, France, Netherlands, and England have emerged victorious from the intense quarterfinal matches, setting up two thrilling semifinals.Spain, the three-time champions, have maintained their unbeaten streak throughout the tournament. Despite a late equalizer from Germany in the quarterfinals, Spain secured a dramatic victory in extra time thanks to Mikel Merino's header. They will now face France, who overcame Portugal in a penalty shootout. France, under the leadership of Didier Deschamps, will be aiming to reach their third major final in four tournaments.The second semifinal will pit Netherlands against England. England, despite not being at their best, have remained unbeaten and will be looking to continue their momentum. Netherlands, on the other hand, have faced challenges throughout the tournament but have shown resilience and determination.The semifinals promise to be captivating encounters, with each team possessing unique strengths and weaknesses. Spain's dominance in possession and attacking prowess will be tested against France's defensive solidity and counterattacking threat. Netherlands' experience and tactical flexibility will be put to the test against England's youthful exuberance and attacking flair.The semifinals will be held on July 10 and 11 at the Allianz Arena in Munich and the BVB Stadion Dortmund, respectively. The winners will advance to the final on July 14 at the Olympiastadion Berlin, where they will battle for the European Championship title.

The Netherlands overcame a resilient Turkish side to secure a hard-fought 2-1 victory in the quarterfinals of Euro 2024, booking their place in the semifinals.Turkey took the lead in the 35th minute through Samet Akaydin's header, but the Dutch responded with determination. Stefan De Vrij equalized in the 70th minute, and an own goal from Mert Muldur six minutes later sealed the victory for the Netherlands.The Dutch started brightly, but Turkey's resolute defense held firm. However, the introduction of Wout Weghorst at halftime proved pivotal. His physical presence gave the Dutch wingers a target, and the pressure eventually paid off.De Vrij's equalizer came from a Memphis Depay cross, while Muldur's own goal resulted from Denzel Dumfries' low cross. The Dutch supporters, who had been largely silenced by Turkey's early goal, erupted in celebration.Turkey, despite missing suspended defender Merih Demiral, put up a valiant fight. Their fans, who outnumbered the Dutch supporters in Berlin, created a vibrant atmosphere. However, the Netherlands' quality ultimately prevailed.The Dutch will now face England in the semifinals on Wednesday, while Spain and France will clash in the other semifinal on Tuesday.

Turkey's Euro 2024 campaign has been marred by controversy after defender Merih Demiral was suspended for two games for making an alleged ultra-nationalist salute. Demiral's gesture, associated with the Turkish right-wing extremist group Grey Wolves, has sparked a diplomatic row between Turkey and Germany, the host nation of Euro 2024.Demiral scored both goals in Turkey's 2-1 victory over Austria in the last 16, but his celebration for his second goal drew the ire of UEFA. The governing body deemed his actions as violating the basic rules of conduct and bringing the sport into disrepute. As a result, Demiral will miss the quarter-final clash with the Netherlands and a potential semi-final against England or Switzerland.The incident has escalated into a diplomatic row, with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan set to attend the quarter-final in Berlin. Turkey summoned the German ambassador after politicians condemned Demiral's celebration, with Interior Minister Nancy Faeser stating that "the symbols of Turkish right-wing extremists have no place in our stadiums."Demiral has defended his actions, claiming that his celebration was related to his "Turkish identity" and that there was no "hidden message." However, the Grey Wolves have a history of violence and radicalism, and their symbol has been banned in Austria and France.The controversy has highlighted the complex relationship between Turkey and Germany, which is home to a large Turkish community. Berlin police have announced increased security measures for the quarter-final, which is considered a "high-risk game."The incident has also raised questions about the role of politics in sports. UEFA's decision to suspend Demiral has been criticized by some as an overreaction, while others argue that it sends a strong message against extremism.As Turkey prepares for the quarter-final without Demiral, the diplomatic row between the two nations continues to overshadow the sporting event. The outcome of the match and the ongoing controversy will undoubtedly have a significant impact on the relationship between Turkey and Germany.

Turkey and the Netherlands have secured their places in the quarter-finals of Euro 2024 after thrilling victories in the round of 16.Turkey, who last reached the last eight of a European Championship in 2008, stunned Austria 2-1 in a pulsating encounter in Leipzig. Merih Demiral emerged as the unlikely hero for Turkey, scoring a stunning header just before the hour mark to seal the victory. The Al-Ahli defender had earlier given his team a dream start by bundling the ball home in the opening minute.Austria, who were also making their first appearance in the knockout stages of a major tournament since 2008, fought valiantly but were unable to find an equalizer despite dominating possession for much of the second half. Michael Gregoritsch halved the deficit shortly after Demiral's second goal, but Christoph Baumgartner's late effort was denied by an incredible save from Mert Gunok.In the other quarter-final, the Netherlands eased past Romania 3-0 in Munich. Cody Gakpo opened the scoring for the Dutch in the 20th minute, before Donyell Malen added a brace in the second half. The victory was a welcome boost for Ronald Koeman's side, who had come under fire after their disappointing performance in the group stage.Turkey will now face the Netherlands in Berlin on Saturday, while the winner of that match will play either England or Switzerland in the semi-finals.

Aston Villa have bolstered their defensive ranks with the acquisition of Netherlands international Ian Maatsen from Chelsea. The 22-year-old left-back joins the Villans on a permanent deal, reportedly worth around £37.5 million.Maatsen, who spent the previous season on loan at Borussia Dortmund, impressed with his performances in the Bundesliga and Champions League. He made 16 appearances in the German top flight, scoring once in Dortmund's quarter-final victory over Atletico Madrid. He also featured in seven Champions League matches, including the final against Real Madrid.Prior to his loan spell at Dortmund, Maatsen had made 12 Premier League appearances for Chelsea. He has also gained valuable experience on loan at Charlton, Coventry, and Burnley.Maatsen's arrival at Villa Park reunites him with manager Unai Emery, who signed him for Arsenal in 2018. The Dutch defender is the second signing made by Emery in the pre-season transfer window, following the acquisition of forward Lewis Dobbin from Everton.Villa's ambitious plans for the upcoming season include competing in the Champions League after finishing fourth in the Premier League last term. Maatsen's versatility and experience will be crucial as the Villans aim to make an impact on multiple fronts.The Netherlands international is currently with his national team at Euro 2024 in Germany, where he has been called up as a replacement for the injured Frenkie de Jong.

Austria's relentless determination and tactical brilliance propelled them to a thrilling 3-2 victory over the Netherlands in Berlin, securing their place atop Group D in the Euro 2024 qualifiers. The victory sends shockwaves through the tournament, as Austria emerges as a formidable contender, leaving behind tournament favorites France and the Netherlands.Ralf Rangnick's Austria showcased their attacking prowess and defensive resilience, dictating the tempo of the match from the outset. Donyell Malen's unfortunate own goal gave Austria an early lead, but Cody Gakpo's equalizer in the second half threatened to derail their momentum. However, Romano Schmid's header restored Austria's advantage, and Memphis Depay's equalizer set the stage for a frantic finish.In the end, it was Marcel Sabitzer's clinical strike that sealed the victory for Austria. The Netherlands, despite introducing Wout Weghorst as a late substitute, failed to find an equalizer, leaving them in third place in the group.Austria's victory is a testament to Rangnick's tactical acumen and the team's unwavering belief. They have proven to be a force to be reckoned with, and their performance in Berlin has sent a clear message to the rest of the tournament contenders.

The Netherlands and Austria face off in a crucial Group D clash at Euro 2024, with both teams vying for top spot. The Dutch, who have finished first in their groups at the past two major tournaments, are looking to secure a place in the knockout phase with a victory. However, Austria, who impressed in their 3-1 win over Poland, could also qualify for the last 16 with a positive result.Dutch coach Ronald Koeman has admitted that his side was "not up to scratch" in their goalless draw with France, but a win against Austria would wrap up top spot in the group, provided France do not win by a bigger margin in their simultaneous final game against Poland.Despite a promising start to the campaign, there has been debate back home about the make-up of the Dutch team. Memphis Depay, who struggled up front against France, has faced criticism, while there have been calls for Wout Weghorst to be given a start after he came off the bench to score the winner in the Netherlands' opening game against Poland.Austria, meanwhile, will likely go through with a point as one of the best third-placed teams but could also still finish first with a win, if France fail to beat Poland. Touted as one of the dark horses for the tournament, Ralf Rangnick's men impressed in their victory over Poland and will be looking to guarantee a top-two finish with a positive result against the Netherlands.Austria made the knockout stage of a major tournament for the first time since 1954 three years ago, when they gave eventual Euros winners Italy a fright in the last 16 before losing in extra time. They have never reached the quarter-finals at a European Championship."Somehow it is nice to be called that (dark horses)," said Christoph Baumgartner, who scored the crucial goal which put Austria 2-1 ahead against Poland. "We won against Germany in the build-up, we had a really good period in the last few weeks and months, and then people start to think big quite quickly.""But we as a team always knew how to assess the situation. We knew against France we weren't at our maximum. We know if we reach our best level we can beat a lot of nations."

France and the Netherlands played out a goalless draw in Leipzig, edging closer to the last 16 of Euro 2024. The match lacked the spark of Kylian Mbappe, who sat out due to a broken nose.Despite the absence of their talisman, France had the better chances. Antoine Griezmann missed two glorious opportunities, while Marcus Thuram and Aurelien Tchouameni also came close. The Dutch, roared on by a large contingent of fans, had a goal controversially ruled out for offside. Xavi Simons fired in the rebound after Mike Maignan saved from Memphis Depay, but Denzel Dumfries was adjudged to have interfered with Maignan's line of sight.The draw leaves both teams level on four points at the top of Group D, one ahead of Austria. France face Poland, while the Netherlands take on Austria in the final games of the section on Tuesday.France coach Didier Deschamps opted for security in midfield, replacing Mbappe with Tchouameni. Without their captain, the 2022 World Cup finalists looked to Griezmann for inspiration. The stand-in skipper tested Bart Verbruggen from distance but missed a sitter before half-time.The Dutch had their moments, with Jeremie Frimpong forcing Maignan into an early save. Cody Gakpo also tested the French goalkeeper with a low drive.In the second half, France continued to create chances. Thuram fired wide from the edge of the area, while Tchouameni headed over. Griezmann was guilty of another big miss when he failed to convert a clear-cut opportunity.The major talking point of the match was the disallowed Dutch goal. Simons' effort was ruled out after a lengthy VAR check, much to the frustration of the Dutch players and fans.Deschamps resisted the temptation to risk Mbappe in the closing stages, instead sending on Olivier Giroud and Kingsley Coman. However, neither side could find a winner, and both teams settled for a point that is likely to be enough to secure their passage to the knockout rounds.