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 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.

Czech Republic vs Turkey: A Crucial Clash for Euro 2024 QualificationAs the Euro 2024 group stage draws to a close, Czech Republic and Turkey face off in a pivotal match that will determine their fate in the tournament. Both teams enter the encounter with contrasting fortunes, setting the stage for an intriguing battle.Turkey, buoyed by their impressive 3-1 victory over Georgia in their opening match, are on the cusp of securing second place in Group F. A point against Czech Republic would all but guarantee their direct qualification to the Round of 16. The Turkish side has shown resilience and attacking prowess, with Burak Yılmaz and Cengiz Ünder leading the charge.Czech Republic, on the other hand, find themselves in a precarious position. After a disappointing 1-1 draw with Croatia, they need a victory to keep their qualification hopes alive. A draw would leave them with only two points, which would likely not be enough to secure a spot among the four best third-placed teams.The match will be played at the Volksparkstadion in Hamburg on Thursday, June 27, at 12:30 AM IST. The stakes are high for both teams, and the atmosphere is expected to be electric.Czech Republic will be looking to their talismanic captain, Tomáš Souček, to inspire them to victory. The West Ham United midfielder is known for his tireless work rate and ability to create chances. Patrik Schick, the Bayer Leverkusen striker, will also be a key figure, having scored the equalizer against Croatia.Turkey will rely on the experience of their veteran goalkeeper, Volkan Babacan, to keep Czech Republic at bay. The 39-year-old has been in impressive form and will be determined to help his team secure qualification.The match promises to be a close and competitive affair, with both teams desperate for a positive result. Czech Republic will need to play with urgency and intensity, while Turkey will look to control the tempo and exploit their attacking threats.

Portugal's emphatic 3-0 victory over Turkey in the UEFA Euro 2024 group stage was marred by a series of pitch invasions that turned from heartwarming to concerning.The first incident saw a young boy invade the pitch and approach Cristiano Ronaldo. Ronaldo, known for his generosity, embraced the boy and took a selfie with him. However, subsequent pitch invasions took a more aggressive turn.Ronaldo refused to take a selfie with a second invader, who was promptly removed by stadium officials. As the game progressed, two more pitch invasions occurred during injury time, raising questions about the security measures in place.After the final whistle, two additional pitch invasions took place. One incident involved a security official colliding with Portugal striker Goncalo Ramos while attempting to apprehend an invader. Ramos was seen limping after the incident, highlighting the potential safety risks posed by such reckless behavior.The pitch invasions overshadowed Portugal's dominant performance on the field. Bernardo Silva, Bruno Fernandes, and an own goal from Turkey secured the victory for the Portuguese. Portugal is now poised to top Group F and advance to the knockout stages.The incidents have sparked concerns about the security arrangements at Euro 2024, which is being hosted in Germany. The safety of players and the integrity of the competition are paramount, and authorities must take immediate steps to prevent further pitch invasions.

Portugal secured their place in the last 16 of Euro 2024 with a dominant 3-0 victory over Turkey on Saturday. Bernardo Silva's early strike, a comical own goal by Samet Akaydin, and Bruno Fernandes's second-half tap-in sealed the win for the reigning European champions.Portugal's star-studded lineup, led by Cristiano Ronaldo, showcased their class against a spirited but limited Turkey side. Silva's composed finish in the 21st minute set the tone for the match, while Akaydin's unfortunate own goal just minutes later doubled Portugal's lead.Ronaldo, who is aiming to become the oldest goalscorer in European Championship history, played a pivotal role in Portugal's victory. He unselfishly set up Fernandes for a simple goal in the 56th minute, demonstrating his enduring quality and leadership.Portugal's victory was a testament to their depth and experience. Despite the absence of key players such as Ruben Dias and Joao Felix, Fernando Santos's side controlled the game from start to finish. They will now face one of the four best third-place finishers in the next round, while Turkey must beat the Czech Republic to secure second place in Group F.The match was played in front of a passionate Turkish crowd at the Westfalenstadion in Dortmund. Despite the result, the Turkish fans remained vocal and supportive throughout the game. Their enthusiasm created a vibrant atmosphere, but it was Portugal who ultimately proved too strong.

Turkey vs Georgia: A Clash of Euro 2024 ContendersTurkey and Georgia will lock horns in a crucial Group F encounter in Euro 2024 on Tuesday, June 18. Turkey, known for their unpredictable performances, will be aiming to secure a direct berth in the knockout stage. Led by midfield maestro Hakan Calhanoglu and rising star Arda Guler, the Turkish squad boasts a blend of experience and youthful exuberance.Georgia, making their Euro debut, will be no pushovers. Napoli's Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, a rising star in European football, will be a key player for the Georgian side. With a talented squad and a determination to make a mark on the international stage, Georgia will be eager to upset the odds.The match will be played at the BVB Stadion in Dortmund, Germany, and will kick off at 9:30 PM IST. The encounter promises to be a thrilling battle between two nations with contrasting strengths and ambitions.Turkey, with their experienced midfield and attacking prowess, will be the favorites to emerge victorious. However, Georgia's youthful energy and the presence of Kvaratskhelia could pose a significant threat. The match is expected to be closely contested, with both teams eager to make a statement in their Euro 2024 campaign.

Sunil Chhetri, the former Indian football captain, is set to grace television screens once again as an expert for Euro 2024, which kicks off in Germany on Friday. Chhetri, who recently retired from international football, is particularly excited about England's prospects in the tournament."You can't go beyond the usual suspects, you know, France, Germany, England, etc.," Chhetri said. "But I feel England is right at the sweet spot now. The likes of [Phil] Foden, [Jude] Bellingham... prodigies once, are world leaders now. If you can leave out the likes of Marcus Rashford and Jack Grealish, you can imagine the kind of talent England has."Chhetri also believes that Hungary and Turkey could be surprise packages in the tournament. "I think Hungary and Turkey can be those teams. I'm saying purely on all the action that I've seen in the last one-and-a-half years and their qualification performances. They have been outstanding."The tournament is also expected to be the last major event for veterans like Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo (39) and Croatia's Luka Modric (38). German midfielder Toni Kroos (34), who recently won his fifth UEFA Champions League with Real Madrid, has already announced that Euro 2024 will be his last bow."The thing that keeps them going is their love for the game," Chhetri said. "For Modric to win the Champions League [with Real Madrid for the sixth time], and still come for training, get elbowed and get tackled... If you don't love the game you won't do it."