Watch Turkiye vs Georgia full match replay and highlights.
KICK-OFF at 16:00 (GMT) on 18th June 2024
The referee for this match is F. Tello
Game played at BVB Stadion Dortmund
This is a match in Europe – UEFA European Championship, Group F, Season 2024
Turkey Triumphs Over Georgia in Euro 2024 Opener with Spectacular Goals
Mert Müldür and Arda Güler scored stunning goals as Turkey kicked off their UEFA Euro 2024 campaign with a thrilling 3-1 victory over debutants Georgia.
Dramatic Start Despite Weather Challenges
The day almost ended in disappointment for fans due to torrential rain at Signal Iduna Park, creating a waterfall effect from the roof. However, once conditions improved, the match began, and the home of Borussia Dortmund witnessed a remarkable performance from both teams.
Müldür’s Stunning Opener
Midway through the first half, Turkey took the lead in spectacular fashion. Mert Müldür connected first-time with a headed clearance, sending a volley into the top corner of the Georgian net, leaving goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili helpless. The strike was an early contender for Goal of the Tournament, electrifying the stadium.
Georgia’s Resilience and Historic Equalizer
Georgia, making their European Championship debut, appeared rattled after Müldür’s opener. Their situation seemed to worsen when Kenan Yıldız scored at the back post, but VAR overturned the goal for a marginal offside. This reprieve allowed Georgia to regroup, and they equalized five minutes later. Georges Mikautadze made history by becoming the first Georgian scorer at a major tournament, squeezing his shot into the bottom corner.
Second Half Tension and Güler’s Wonder Strike
The second half saw both teams continue their attacking efforts despite a drop in intensity. Hakan Çalhanoğlu’s long-range free-kick forced a sharp save from Mamardashvili, while Georgia’s Khvicha Kvaratskhelia came close to scoring but missed the target.
Turkey capitalized on Georgia’s missed chances when Arda Güler curled a magnificent shot into the top corner, igniting celebrations among Turkish fans. The 19-year-old’s goal marked his seventh in his last seven starts for club and country, showcasing his prodigious talent.
Late Drama and Turkey’s Sealing Goal
Georgia continued to press for an equalizer, with Mikautadze missing narrowly and a late free-kick hitting the post. Turkey’s defense, particularly Samet Akaydin, made crucial interventions to preserve their lead. In the dying moments, substitute Kerem Aktürkoğlu countered from a corner, racing clear to slot into an empty net, sealing a memorable 3-1 victory for Turkey.
Looking Ahead
This thrilling victory sets a positive tone for Turkey’s Euro 2024 campaign, while Georgia, despite the loss, can take pride in their spirited performance and historic first goal at a major tournament. Both teams will look to build on this opener in their upcoming matches.