Arda Guler's stunning wonder goal propelled Turkey to a thrilling 3-1 victory over Georgia in their Euro 2024 Group D opener, marking a memorable first appearance for Georgia at the tournament.
Antalya, Turkey - Turkey wrote the first chapter of their Euro 2024 journey with a dramatic 3-1 victory over debutants Georgia at the Antalya Arena on Sunday night. Arda Guler's magnificent wonder goal sent the Turkish crowd into raptures, securing a crucial three points in Group D.
Turkey Triumphs over Georgia in Euro 2024 Thriller
The match kicked off with a cautious start, both teams attempting to find their rhythm. Georgia, making their first appearance at the European Championship, showed no signs of nerves, moving the ball confidently and creating sporadic chances. However, it was Turkey who managed to break the deadlock in the 22nd minute.
A brilliant interplay between Hakan Calhanoglu and Burak Yilmaz resulted in a low cross reaching Kerem Akturkoglu, who calmly slotted home from close range. The goal ignited the Turkish atmosphere, and the hosts grew in confidence, dominating possession.
Georgia responded well to going behind, and their persistence paid off on the stroke of halftime. A well-worked corner found its way to Giorgi Kvilitaia, who rose unmarked to head past Ugurcan Cakir and equalize for the visitors.
The second half commenced with Georgia continuing to press for the lead. However, Turkey regained their composure and began to impose their authority on the match. The introduction of Arda Guler proved to be a masterstroke, as the young winger ignited the Turkish attack.
In the 67th minute, Guler received the ball on the left flank and embarked on a mesmerizing solo run, weaving through the Georgian defense before unleashing an unstoppable shot from outside the box. The ball flew into the top corner, sending the Turkish fans into ecstasy.
The goal seemed to break Georgia's resistance, and Turkey added a third in the dying minutes through Yilmaz. A long ball from Okay Yokuslu found the veteran striker in space, and he made no mistake with a clinical finish.
The final whistle sparked scenes of jubilation among the Turkish players and coaching staff. Georgia, despite a valiant effort, were left to rue missed opportunities. Turkey's victory sets them up nicely for their next Group D encounter against Italy, while Georgia will seek to bounce back against Wales.
* Ugurcan Cakir - 7/10
* Zeki Celik - 7/10
* Caglar Soyuncu - 8/10
* Merih Demiral - 7/10
* Umut Meras - 7/10
* Okay Yokuslu - 8/10
* Hakan Calhanoglu - 8/10
* Yunus Musah - 7/10
* Kerem Akturkoglu - 7/10
* Burak Yilmaz - 8/10
* Arda Guler - 9/10
* Giorgi Mamardashvili - 6/10
* Solomon Kvirkvelia - 6/10
* Guram Kashia - 6/10
* Giorgi Chakvetadze - 6/10
* Otar Kiteishvili - 5/10
* Valeriane Gvilia - 6/10
* Giorgi Aburjania - 6/10
* Jaba Kankava - 6/10
* Zuriko Davitashvili - 6/10
* Giorgi Kvilitaia - 7/10
* Khvicha Kvaratskhelia - 6/10
