In an electrifying Austria vs Turkey match that unfolded on July 3, 2024, the UEFA Euro Cup 2024 witnessed a breathtaking clash that ended with Turkey defeating Austria 2-1. This victory marked a significant achievement as Turkey advanced to the quarter-finals for the first time in16 years, largely due to the outstanding performance by Merih Demiral. Let’s delve into the pivotal moments and key details of this game.
Match Statistics | Austria vs Turkey
- Possession: Austria 59% – 41% Turkey
- Shots (on target): Austria 18 (5) – 6 (3) Turkey
- Corners: Austria 10 – 4 Turkey
- Yellow Cards: Austria 2 – 2 Turkey
- Fouls: Austria 12 – 5 Turkey
Match in Brief | Austria vs Turkey
Fast-Paced Opening with a Historic Goal
Right from the start, the Austria vs Turkey match set a vigorous pace. Merih Demiral stole the show early at just 57 seconds into the match, recording one of the fastest goals in the history of the Euro tournament. Despite Austria’s known strategy for quick beginnings, as noted by their own Christoph Baumgartner, it was Turkey that capitalized, turning a corner into an early lead.
Austria’s Counter and Half-Time Adjustments
Austria narrowly missed equalizing several times, with Baumgartner and later Marko Arnautović coming close but ultimately denied by Turkey’s strong defensive plays and crucial saves by Mert Günok. Reinvigorated by tactical changes at half-time implemented by coach Ralf Rangnick, Austria pressed hard, suggesting a turning point could be imminent.
Turning Point and Intense Final Moments
The game intensifed further in the second half. Following a series of attacks and another relentless corner, Demiral once again found the net with a commanding header, doubling the advantage for Turkey. Nevertheless, the Austrian spirit remained unbroken, and substitute Michael Gregoritsch narrowed the gap with a crucial goal.
As the match neared its climax with torrential rain adding to the drama, Günok executed a breathtaking save during injury time, securing a 2-1 victory for Turkey in what turned into a nerve-racking conclusion.
Standout Performer: Merih Demiral
Merih Demiral, undoubtedly the standout player of the match, was named the Vivo Player of the Match. His defensive resilience coupled with his critical goal-scoring made a monumental difference for Turkey.
Key Statistics from the Match | Austria vs Turkey
- Demiral’s opener became the second-fastest goal in Euro finals history.
- Gregoritsch’s goal was noted as the 100th of Euro 2024.
- Austria has been seeking a knockout stage victory at a major tournament since the 1954 FIFA World Cup.
- Turkey showcased their rich talent with goals by six different players throughout the tournament.
- The match saw two teenagers starting in a Euro knockout match, underscoring Turkey’s youthful dynamism.
Team Line-ups | Austria vs Turkey
For Austria:
Alexander Schlager; Stefan Posch, Philipp Lienhart, Maximilian Wöber, Andreas Ulmer; Florian Grillitsch, Marcel Sabitzer; Konrad Laimer, Christoph Baumgartner, Valentino Lazaro; Marko Arnautović
For Turkey:
Mert Günok; Mert Müldür, Merih Demiral, Caglar Soyuncu, Ferdi Kadıoğlu; Ozan Tufan, Okay Yokuşlu; Yusuf Yazici, Hakan Calhanoglu, Cengiz Ünder; Burak Yilmaz
Match Insights and Reactions | Austria vs Turkey
Rangnick’s Optimistic Outlook
Austria’s coach, Ralf Rangnick, expressed confidence in his team’s abilities. Despite the loss, he believes Austria can go far in the tournament. “We are realistic,” Rangnick said. “There is only one way to get as far as possible, which is to take care of the next match.”
Montella’s Praise for Austria
Turkey’s coach, Vincenzo Montella, acknowledged Austria’s strength. He described them as a “complete team” that presses aggressively and transitions well. Austria had previously thrashed Turkey 6-1 in a friendly match.
Conclusion | Austria vs Turkey
The Austria vs Turkey match in the UEFA Euro Cup 2024 was a dazzling display of skill, stamina, and strategy, culminating in a hard-fought victory for Turkey. This match not only thrilled fans but also wrote a new chapter in Turkey’s footballing history, signaling their strong presence on the European stage. As the tournament progresses, both teams have shown promising signs, setting up an exhilarating continuation of the UEFA Euro Cup 2024.
