19-year-old Arda Güler who has been labelled 'Turkish Messi' starred on his European Championships debut against Gerogia. Güler became the youngest to score a goal in the tournament at 19 years and 114 days. He broke Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo’s record which he created in the 2024 edition of the tournament. Ronaldo was 19 years and 128 days of age when he scored a goal against Greece.
Mert Muldur in the 25th minute gave Turkey the lead in Dortmund with a sensational volley into the top corner to leave Georgia goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili stunned. Georgia who made their Euro Championships debut were quick to score the equaliser. In the 32nd minute, Georges Mikautadze guided Giorgi Kochorashvili's corner past goalkeeper Mert Gunok.
Guler’s sensational goal
In the second half, Guler got Turkey a lead as his curling strike from 25 yards went into the top corner. But on-debut Georgia continued to trouble Turkish defense. They were unlucky to hit the post whereas Giorgi Kochorashvili missed an opportunity to score late into the game.
Guler also became the third teenager after Spain's Pedri and England's Wayne Rooney to create more than five chances at the Euro's.
“I am just thrilled, no words to describe how I feel. I was dreaming of this goal constantly. I am working extra hard to give back to the amazing love I’ve been receiving,” said the young Real Madrid Champions League winner, who won the Player of the Match award.
“I’ve been practising this particular shot recently at the end of training sessions. I am so happy to have scored this way. (Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti) messaged me earlier today and wished me luck.”
Akturkoglu rolls one into empty net
Later, in the seventh minute of the stoppage time, substitute Kerem Akturkoglu scored an easy goal as keeper Mamardashvili came up for a corner in a desperate attempt to find the equaliser but ended up leaving an empty net. Akturkoglu was ecstatic as Turkey kicked off their campaign with a win.
“We dreamed of starting with a win. We knew we were coming to a great atmosphere, playing like we’re at home. This is a great start but we’re just beginning. We had never started with a win at the Euros. This is historic for us. We need to stay grounded if we want this victory to mean something. It will only mean something if we can continue this way,” said the 25-year-old
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