JAKARTA The opening match of Group F Euro 2024, Tuesday 18 June between Turkey and Georgia at Westfalens Dortmund Stadium, was marked by high tensions both on and off the pitch. Prior to kick-off, there were major clashes between supporters of the two countries forcing the police to intervene to restore order.
After the situation was under control, the match began where Turkey immediately dominated the game. They managed to score the first goal through a spectacular volley from Mert Muldur which hit the top corner of the Georgia goal. This goal became the opening moment that brought the stadium to life.
Not long after, Turkey almost doubled their lead, but the second goal was ruled out by VAR for offside. However, Turkey's dominance continues with several dangerous opportunities that almost add to their lead.
Georgia, which has only appeared in a big tournament for the first time, has shown a high fighting spirit. They managed to equalize through Georges Mikautadze, who scored Georgia's first goal in a major tournament with a first-time shot that beat Turkey's goalkeeper, Gunok, at the near post.
Entering the second half, Turkey took the lead again through an extraordinary goal from Real Madrid young player, Arda Guler. The curling shot from a distance of 25 yards was unable to be stopped by Georgia goalkeeper Mamardashvili and ensured Turkey was 2-1 up.
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Georgia did not remain silent and continued to apply pressure. They came close to equalizing again when Kochorashvili's shot from inside the penalty box only hit the crossbar. Even so, Turkey's defense remained solid and managed to keep their lead until the end of the match.
In injury time, Turkey added one more goal after using the empty Georgia goal because it was left by goalkeeper Mamardashvili to help attack. The Akturkoglu brake also punished Georgia with a goal in the empty net.
The match ended in a 3-1 win for Turkey, giving them three important points in Group F. Meanwhile, Georgia, despite losing, showed great potential with a promising performance. This victory is also the perfect 50th birthday gift for Turkish coach Vincenzo Montella.
The incident before the match and intensity on the pitch made this match one of the main highlights at the start of Euro 2024. Turkey is now leading the Group F standings, while Georgia will have to work hard in the next game to keep their hopes in this tournament.
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