Turkish ladies’s nationwide soccer staff goalkeeper Selda Akgöz is rallying followers as they gear up for a historic conflict in opposition to Ukraine within the 2025 UEFA Women’s European Championship playoffs.
The pivotal matches will happen on Oct. 25 and 29, with the primary match hosted at Esenler Erok Stadium.
In an interview with Anadolu Agency (AA), Akgöz emphasised the significance of fan help for the opening match, stating, “Our preparations are going exceptionally well. We’ve really missed each other, and we’re getting ready beautifully. We can’t wait for Oct. 25. I know our supporters will stand by us because we truly need their support. This is a historic match, and we want them with us to celebrate this moment together.”
The proven fact that the second match is scheduled for Oct. 29, coinciding with Türkiye’s Republic Day, provides particular significance. “We are the women of the Republic, and it’s time to showcase our strength,” Akgöz remarked. “For now, our focus is on Oct. 25. I want to concentrate on that match before thinking about the second one. We need to take it step by step.”
Playing for Ankara Büyükşehir Belediyesi Fomget, Akgöz additionally highlighted her ties to teammates on the Ukrainian nationwide staff, lots of whom are affected by the continued battle of their nation.
“Some of my teammates from Ukraine are still facing challenges back home,” she stated. “We are all preparing diligently. Everything will be determined on match day, and we can’t wait to get on the field. We’re excited to advance to the next round.”
Should Türkiye remove Ukraine, they may face both Belgium or Greece within the second playoff spherical.
“Our priority is Ukraine,” Akgöz stated. “Once we finish that match, we will focus on our next opponents. We’ll watch their games to strategize or continue with our own style.”
Reflecting on the staff’s current success, Akgöz expressed her optimism: “We moved up from League C to League B without conceding a single goal. We faced tough opponents, but we overcame them and secured our spot. We’re playing in the playoffs now, something that hasn’t happened in years. I’ve been part of the national team for a long time, and we’re in an incredibly positive phase. I believe this success will continue. For now, we must focus on these two matches against Ukraine, and then we’ll plan for what comes next.”
Source: www.dailysabah.com