Turkey kicked off their Euro 2024 campaign with a thrilling 3-1 victory over Georgia on Tuesday, bringing joy to their passionate fans who braved the rain in Dortmund.
In the 65th minute, Real Madrid midfielder Arda Guler struck a spectacular goal at the Westfalenstadion, which was filled with thousands of Turkey supporters. Kerem Akturkoglu secured the win by scoring the third goal deep into stoppage time as Georgia sought a late equalizer.
Guler, 19, had faced a challenging first season at Madrid due to injuries but rose to the occasion for Turkey in this fiercely contested match against Georgia. This was Georgia’s debut in a major international tournament, yet they held their own.
After Georges Mikautadze equalized Mert Muldur’s 25th-minute opener just past the half-hour mark, Georgia remained a threat. They came close to scoring again, hitting the woodwork and forcing Turkey into a series of saves and blocks.
Ultimately, Akturkoglu’s late goal ensured Turkey topped the group ahead of Portugal’s match against the Czech Republic later that day.
Turkey capitalized on the fervent support from their fans, pressing high against Georgia right from the start. The noise from the stands fueled their aggressive play.
Kaan Ayhan and Abdulkerim Bardakci both had early chances with headers from corners in the first 10 minutes, and Ayhan nearly scored with a low drive that hit the post.
In a dynamic opening period, Anzor Mekvabishvili almost gave Georgia a surprise lead in the 11th minute with a deflected shot, which was well saved by Mert Gunok.
Muldur ignited celebrations in the 25th minute with a stunning volley from the edge of the area after Ferdi Kadioglu’s cross was cleared to him.