Controversies and Highlights in Euro 2024
Key Matches and Political Tensions
The European Football Championship, Euro 2024, currently being held in Germany, is witnessing a series of exciting matches and political controversies. One of the most anticipated matches is between the Netherlands and Turkey, set for this Saturday. The French referee Clément Turpin will be officiating, marking his third appearance in the tournament. He previously refereed the Germany-Scotland and England-Slovenia matches. Turpin will be joined by his usual assistants, Nicolas Danos and Benjamin Pages, with Jérôme Brisard overseeing the VAR.
The match between the Netherlands and Turkey takes place in a charged political atmosphere. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan will attend the quarter-final amid a diplomatic dispute with Germany. The controversy was sparked by Turkish defender Merih Demiral's celebration during the round of 16 against Austria, where he made the rallying sign of the 'Grey Wolves,' a far-right group. This act has led UEFA to open an investigation into Demiral's 'potentially inappropriate behavior.' The German Minister of the Interior, Nancy Faeser, has called for sanctions, stating that 'the symbol of Turkish right-wing extremists has no place in our stadiums.'
Meanwhile, Turkey's journey in the tournament has been eventful. They secured a dramatic victory over Austria with a last-minute goal by substitute Cenk Tosun, propelling them into the knockout stage for the first time since 2008. Austria, on the other hand, has had a remarkable run, defeating Poland and the Netherlands to reach the quarter-finals. Their fluid and risk-taking style of play has made them one of the most entertaining teams in the tournament.
In another key match, the Romanian team will face the Netherlands in the round of 16, with German referee Felix Zwayer officiating. Zwayer, who has a history of controversy linked to a corruption and match-fixing scandal in 2004, will be making his first appearance in the Euro knockout stages. Despite his past, Zwayer has built a strong reputation in the Bundesliga and the Champions League.
The Euro 2024 tournament continues to captivate fans with its blend of high-stakes matches and off-field drama. As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on the upcoming quarter-finals and the decisions made by UEFA regarding the recent controversies.
- The match between Turkey and Austria, scheduled for Tuesday, July 2, will be held at the Red Bull Arena in Leipzig. Portuguese referee Artur Soares Dias will manage the game. The match will be broadcast on the beIN Sports network, with live coverage available on multiple channels, including beIN Sports HD 1 Max and beIN Sports HD 2 Max.
- Turkey's possible lineup for the match includes Gunuk, Muldur, Demiral, Bardaksi, Kadioglu, Calhanoglu, Yüküşlu, Kahwaci, Guler, Yildiz, and Yilmaz. Austria's lineup is expected to feature Bentz, Bosch, Danso, Lenhart, Moen, Seewald, Grelich, Schmid, Baumgartner, Sabitzer, and Arnautovic.
