Teenager Arda Guler's excellent long-range goal propelled Turkey to a triumphant beginning in their Euro 2024 journey, securing a 3-1 victory against tournament newcomers Georgia in a charged atmosphere in Dortmund on Tuesday. Mert Muldur put Turkey ahead deservedly in the 25th minute, firing a bending volley past the stranded Georgia keeper Giorgi Mamardashvili from the edge of the area. Georgia, making their debut in a major international competition, leveled in the 32nd minute when Georges Mikautadze converted Giorgi Kochorashvili's cross, with Mert Gunok failing to adequately protect his near post. Guler, the 19-year-old sensation fresh from a streak of goals for Real Madrid, netted in the 65th minute, curling a shot that was impossible to stop into the top corner. Georgia sought a late equalizer, but with Mamardashvili joining the attack for several corners, Kerem Akturkoglu seized the opportunity to sprint clear and slot into an unguarded net in stoppage time, sealing the 3-1 win.
Text: Lara Palmer
18.06.2024
Teen sensation Guler's stunning goal helps Turkey overcome Georgia's spirited challenge in Dortmund