In a dramatic and thrilling knockout-stage match, Turkey defeated Austria 2-1 to advance to the quarter-finals of the European Championship, where they will face the Netherlands.
Merih Demiral scored the quickest knockout-stage goal in tournament history, pouncing on a loose ball from a corner just 57 seconds into the match. Demiral doubled Turkey’s lead just before the hour mark with a powerful header from another Arda Guler corner, sparking wild celebrations among the Turkish fans at Leipzig’s Red Bull Arena.
Austria, known for their high-intensity play, struggled to break down a resolute Turkish defense and managed to pull one goal back through Michael Gregoritsch in the second half.
Despite relentless pressure and several close chances, Austria could not find an equaliser, thanks in part to Turkey’s goalkeeper Mert Gunok, who made crucial saves to secure the victory.
The win marks Turkey’s first Euros quarter-final appearance since 2008, backed by a passionate and noisy support in Germany, and sets up an exciting clash against the Dutch at Berlin’s Olympiastadion on Saturday.
