Türkiye must navigate their last-16 contest in opposition to Austria at Euro 2024 with out their influential captain, Hakan Çalhanoğlu.
Vincenzo Montella’s squad secured their knockout stage berth with a 2-1 victory over the Czechia on Wednesday, ending second in Group F.
Çalhanoğlu, who performs for Inter Milan, scored a surprising purpose within the fiftieth minute to provide Türkiye the lead.
However, the 30-year-old obtained a reserving for protesting the Czechia’s purpose, leading to his suspension for the essential match in opposition to Austria on Tuesday.
Montella praised his captain for the outstanding strike in a match marred by 16 yellow playing cards and two purple playing cards.
“He managed to score an extraordinary goal. Few players can strike the ball like he does, sending it to the far corner with the outside of his foot. He’s an extraordinary player and an extraordinary man,” Montella advised reporters.
“He was just asking the referee for an explanation as the captain. That’s his role. I’m sure he said nothing offensive. It was a strict decision, and we will pay for it dearly,” Montella added.
Türkiye’s six factors from three video games secured their second-place end behind Portugal in Group F.
This marks Türkiye’s first look within the last-16 of the European Championship since their semifinal run in Euro 2008.
“We’re very happy to have qualified from the group after many years,” Montella advised UEFA’s official web site. “We overcame difficult situations and want to enjoy this victory. Starting on Thursday, we will focus on the next match and aim to continue making history.”
Montella acknowledged the challenges forward, noting the absence of key gamers like Çalhanoğlu. “We need to recover and have six days to prepare. In matches like these, we must control our emotions and be more careful with ball control.”
Praising Austria, Montella mentioned, “They topped a very tough group, including France and the Netherlands. They are fast, fluid, and a team worthy of great admiration.”
Only three of Türkiye’s beginning eleven had prior European Championship expertise, which Montella hopes will cut back the strain transferring ahead.
If Türkiye overcome Austria within the spherical of 16, they are going to face both Romania or the Netherlands within the quarterfinals, aiming to match or surpass their historic run in Euro 2008.
Source: www.dailysabah.com