Turkey's national football team has achieved a historic milestone by advancing to the quarter-finals of Euro 2024. This marks the first time since 2008 that Turkey has progressed past the knockout phase in a major competition. On Tuesday, July 2, Turkey triumphed over Austria with a 2-1 victory in Leipzig, setting up a thrilling quarter-final clash against the Netherlands on Saturday at 9 p.m.
The match against Austria saw Turkey take an early lead with a goal from Merih Demiral, who capitalized on a corner kick from Arda Güler. Demiral's second goal came in the 59th minute, making him the first defender to score twice in a major tournament knockout match since Lilian Thuram in 1998. Despite a late goal from Austria's Michael Gregoritsch, Turkey held on to secure their place in the next round.
Austria, who had a strong group stage performance with victories over Poland and the Netherlands, struggled defensively against Turkey. The Austrian team, known for its fluid and risk-taking style, was unable to overcome Turkey's defensive resilience. The match's final moments were intense, with Turkish goalkeeper Fehmi Mert Günok making a crucial save to deny Austria an equalizer.
The quarter-final match between Turkey and the Netherlands promises to be an exciting encounter. Turkey's journey to this stage included a dramatic win over the Czech Republic, with substitute Cenk Tosun scoring in stoppage time. The Turks will be looking to continue their momentum against a formidable Dutch side.
The match will be held at the Red Bull Arena in Leipzig and will be officiated by Portuguese referee Artur Soares Dias. Fans can watch the game on the beIN Sports network, which holds the broadcasting rights for Euro 2024. The match is scheduled to kick off at 10 p.m. Mecca and Cairo time.
- Turkey's lineup for the quarter-final is expected to include Gunuk, Muldur, Demiral, Bardaksi, Kadioglu, Calhanoglu, Yüküşlu, Kahwaci, Guler, Yildiz, and Yilmaz. Austria's possible lineup features Bentz, Bosch, Danso, Lenhart, Moen, Seewald, Grelich, Schmid, Baumgartner, Sabitzer, and Arnautovic.
- Austria had a notable journey in Euro 2024, including a hard-fought 1-0 loss to France, a 3-1 victory over Poland, and a 3-2 win against the Netherlands. Despite their impressive performance in the group stage, Austria was unable to replicate their success in the knockout phase against Turkey.
