Early Goal Sets the Tone
In the final Round of 16 match of the 2024 UEFA European Championship, Turkey faced Austria in a thrilling encounter for the last spot in the quarterfinals. Turkey took an early lead, scoring in under a minute. Merih Demiral netted the first goal and later added a second in the second half. Austria managed to pull one back in the 65th minute but couldn’t find an equalizer, resulting in a 2-1 victory for Turkey.
Austria and Turkey in Group Stages
Austria topped Group D with a strong performance, securing two wins and one loss. Turkey, finishing second in Group F, also boasted a 2-1 record. The match started with both teams launching immediate attacks. Austria quickly approached the goal but was denied by Turkish goalkeeper Mert Günok.
The Opening Goals
In the first minute, Turkey earned a corner kick. The ball was delivered into a chaotic Austrian defense. Austrian goalkeeper Patrick Pentz deflected the ball straight to Turkish defender Merih Demiral, who easily scored with a left-footed shot.
Austria’s Close Call
In the 5th minute, Austria had a corner kick opportunity. Midfielder Christoph Baumgartner received the ball near the goal but failed to score as the ball hit the right post and rolled out of play.
First Half Statistics
The first half saw equal possession from both teams. Austria had six shot attempts, none on target, while Turkey had three attempts, with one on target, leading to a 1-0 halftime lead for Turkey. Yellow cards were issued to Orkun Kökçü and İsmail Yüksek of Turkey, and Romano Schmid of Austria.
Demiral’s Second Goal
Leading 1-0, Turkey continued their attack in the second half. In the 58th minute, Demiral scored his second goal with a header from a right-sided corner kick, giving Turkey a 2-0 lead.
Austria’s Fightback
Despite increasing rain, Austria’s determination remained strong. In the 65th minute, they earned a corner kick. A header from a teammate set up Michael Gregoritsch, who scored with a right-footed shot, narrowing the deficit to 2-1.
Final Moments
Austria pushed hard for an equalizer, creating several opportunities but failing to score. In stoppage time, Baumgartner’s powerful header was saved by Günok, sealing Turkey’s 2-1 victory and advancement to the quarterfinals.
Match Statistics
| Statistic | Austria | Turkey |
|---|---|---|
| Shots | 20 | 6 |
| Shots on Target | 5 | 3 |
| Goals | 1 | 2 |
| Corners | 8 | 4 |
| Possession (%) | 50 | 50 |
| Yellow Cards | 1 | 2 |
Turkey’s efficiency in front of goal proved decisive, with two goals from three shots on target, securing their place in the quarterfinals.(Superace88)