Turkey gave themselves every chance of progressing while ending the Czech Republic’s tournament with a 2-0 win in Group D.
Fatih Terim rang the changes for turkey after their opening two losses and they immediately paid dividends. Young talisman Emre Mor, given a start for the first time this tournament, was released by Arda Turan and whipped in a lovely cross which Burak Yilmaz swept home to score Turkey’s first goal of the tournament.
The goal prompted the Czech Republic into action. Minutes later, Tomas Sivok came within a whisker of equalizing, only to be denied by the post before Pavel Kaderabeck managed to turn the ball wide from close range. Jaroslav Plasil then forced Turkish custodian Volkan Babacan into a fine save from his long-range effort. Despite the pressure, Turkey continued to look threatening on the break.
MATCH HIGHLIGHTS
With both sides needing goals, the second half proved to be an open affair. The Czechs laid siege to Turkey’s goal, but were unable to find that special something in the final third, as Volkan Babacan stood tall in goal. However, Turkey remained dangerous on the break and midway through the half stamped out any comeback through Ozan Tufan’s powerful strike. Needing three goals in the last 25 minutes, the Czech Republic huffed and puffed, but eventually, the hurdle was too big to overcome as Turkey celebrated a vital win which may keep their tournament alive.
Czech’s draw a blank in front of goal
Heading into the game, both sides knew only a win would help them progress to the next stage of the tournament, and even then it wasn’t a given. For the Czechs a win would’ve ensured their palce in the next stage; For the Turkish, they needed a big win to give them even an outside chance of qualifying. Despite enjoying the lion’s share of chances, the Czech Republic desperately lacked the vital cutting edge in the final third. While they came close on multiple occasions, they were frustrated by Volkan Babacan in goals and let down by their own finishing. The likes of Tomas Necid, Sivok and Kaderabeck all had good chances to bring their side to life, but none of them could convert. Despite two spirited performances earlier in the tournament, their inability to score is what has sent them out.
Terim’s changes worked perfectly
The veteran coach made three changes from the side who were thoroughly outclassed by Spain, bringing in wingers Volkan Sen, Emre Mor and fullback Ismail Koybasi. He knew something had to change following their performances so far at the tournament and his boldness was rewarded. Mor and Sen’s pace, movement and trickery caused issues all day for the Czech defence, especially on the counter attack. It was Mor who set up the opener, his cut back enabling Burak Yilmaz fire home. Every time he got on the ball he caused problems and his brightness was something Turkey have missed so far in this tournament. His fellow attacker Sen also made an impact with his direct running and almost scored with a fizzing 20 yard strike, always looking lively and dangerous. Koybasi found himself under the pump for most of the game, but managed to do enough to ensure a clean sheet. The changes revitalised Turkey and as a result, they find themselves in a good position to progress to the knockout stages.
CROATIA 2 SPAIN 1
Emre Mor can really play
The 18-year-old from Borussia Dortumnd was handed his first start in France, and it turned to out to be a brilliant decision from Terim. Despite his tender year’s Mor didn’t look out of place at all, and proved to be Turkey’s brightest spark going forward. His first contribution was a major one, crossing for Yilmaz’s opening goal after being released by Arda Turan. The youngster’s energy was a welcome sign for his country and he was at the heart of many of their best moments. His composure under pressure, silky skills and youthful exuberance meant he was Turkey’s most promising player going forward. With this performance today, the youngster showed why is he is so highly rated by the continent’s top scouts.
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