Turkey has advanced to their first major event quarter-final in 16 years, inspired by Merih Demiral’s stellar performance in a dramatic victory over Austria in UEFA EURO 2024. The night began with the quickest-ever EURO knockout goal and concluded in sheer, unwavering drama.
When Merih Demiral scored his second goal, it seemed like Türkiye would coast to victory. However, just as in their matches against Czechia and Georgia, they faced intense pressure and anxiety. Despite the challenges, they held on to secure their place in the EURO quarter-finals for the third time in their history.
Austria’s fairy tale run came to an end. Despite winning the toughest group imaginable, they fell short in the round of 16, just as they did in EURO 2020.
Under Ralf Rangnick’s guidance, Austria played an adventurous and attractive style of football, inspiring hope they could progress further. Although their journey captivated both Austrians and neutrals, the loss to Türkiye was devastating.
The UEFA EURO 2024 quarter-finalists have now been narrowed down from 24 to eight. Here’s a look at the teams still in contention for the Henri Delaunay Cup, which will be awarded in Berlin on July 14.
Germany: The Hosts’ Dominance
The hosts started the tournament with a bang, thrilling the Munich crowd with a 5-1 victory over Scotland. They followed this with a hard-fought win against Hungary in Stuttgart. Despite trailing Switzerland in their final Group A match in Frankfurt, a stoppage-time equalizer by Niclas Füllkrug ensured Julian Nagelsmann’s side topped their group and remained unbeaten heading into the knockouts, where they easily defeated Denmark. Forward Jamal Musiala has been particularly impressive, scoring three goals in four matches.
Switzerland: Unyielding and Fearless
Switzerland, undefeated in their group games, delivered a stunning victory over hosts Italy in the round of 16. After nearly eliminating hosts Germany in Group A, with only a last-minute equalizer by Füllkrug denying them, the Nati are confident and dreaming of their first major international championship.
Türkiye: Thrilling Performances and Resilience
Türkiye began the tournament with a thrilling win over Georgia in Dortmund. Despite a setback against Portugal in the same venue, Vincenzo Montella’s team narrowly escaped in their third match against ten-man Czechia, clinching a late victory thanks to Cenk Tosun.
Their round of 16 match in Leipzig was another nail-biter, with two goals from Merih Demiral and an incredible last-second save by Mert Günok securing their spot in only their third EURO quarter-final, defeating Austria.
Stay tuned as the excitement continues in UEFA EURO 2024, with the remaining teams vying for the coveted Henri Delaunay Cup in Berlin.
Reported by Meshack Awino.
