Turkey 0-3 Portugal: Portugal book place in the last 16 after dominant win over Turkey
Portugal secured their spot in the last 16 of Euro 2024 as group winners with a decisive victory over Turkey in Dortmund.
Man City’s Bernardo opened the scoring in the first half, slotting the ball past Turkish goalkeeper Altay Bayindir after a deflection from Nuno Mendes’ cross. Portugal’s lead was doubled by an own goal from Turkish defender Samet Akaydin, who mistakenly passed the ball into his own net without checking his surroundings.
Despite the energetic support from Turkish fans, who had marched to the stadium in a festive parade, Portugal’s fewer but equally spirited supporters celebrated as their team displayed skill and composure. The win was sealed when Cristiano Ronaldo selflessly set up Bruno Fernandes for an easy goal, making it 3-0 before the hour mark.
Portugal, the 2016 champions, will face Georgia next, confident with their group stage performance complete. Turkey, with hopes still alive, will travel to Hamburg to play the Czech Republic in a bid to qualify for the knockout stages.
Despite some promising chances for Turkey, including efforts from Kerem Akturkoglu and Orkun Kokcu, they couldn’t find the back of the net. The Turkish side and their fans were also frustrated with the officiating, feeling that referee Felix Zwayer awarded too many free-kicks to Portugal.
The game also saw interruptions as fans, eager to get pictures with Ronaldo, ran onto the pitch multiple times, causing some frustration for the Portugal captain.
With this win, Portugal’s supporters are optimistic about their team’s chances of going all the way in Germany.
- Cristiano Ronaldo poses for selfie with Euro 2024 pitch invader during Portugal vs Turkey | Football
