ISTANBUL – Turkey took a significant step toward reaching the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Thursday, defeating Romania 1-0 in the first leg of their European playoff semifinal. The victory, secured at the Tupras Stadium in Istanbul, sets the stage for a final showdown against either Kosovo or Slovakia as Turkey aims to conclude a 24-year World Cup drought. The match was largely defined by the creative spark of Real Madrid’s Arda Güler, whose performance drew widespread acclaim.
From the opening whistle, Turkey asserted their intent with a high press and attacking approach. Manager Vincenzo Montella deployed a formation featuring Hakan Çalhanoglu and Güler with considerable freedom in midfield, a tactical setup that proved difficult for Romania to contain. The duo created the majority of Turkey’s early chances, though the breakthrough remained elusive.
Romania struggled to cope with the Turkish attack, particularly on their left flank. Răzvan Ratiu, the Rayo Vallecano right-back, faced a constant challenge against the combined threat of Kerem Yildiz and Ferdi Kadioglu. Ratiu won just one of seven duels on the ground, highlighting Turkey’s dominance in wide areas. While Romania attempted to counter, they found themselves largely pinned back, and even had a goal disallowed after a reviewable offside call.
The deadlock was finally broken in the 53rd minute thanks to a moment of brilliance from Güler. Operating on the right side of the pitch, the Real Madrid midfielder spotted Kadioglu making a run into the penalty area, threading a perfectly weighted pass through the Romanian defense. Kadioglu, of Premier League side Brighton & Hove Albion, controlled the ball and slotted it past the Romanian goalkeeper, Radu, sparking jubilant scenes in the stadium. [1] [2]
The connection between Güler and Kadioglu continued to threaten the Romanian defense. Shortly after the goal, Kadioglu set up Yildiz, whose shot struck the crossbar. The pair then combined again, with Güler testing Radu with another attempt. Radu proved to be a formidable opponent, maintaining Romania’s hopes of finding an equalizer.
Romania continued to search for a goal, and nearly found one when a shot hit the post, but the goal was ultimately ruled out. Turkey, however, remained resolute, closing out the match with maturity and securing their place in the playoff final. [1]
The performance of Arda Güler was particularly noteworthy. He was heavily involved in Turkey’s attacking play, dictating the tempo and providing the crucial assist for the winning goal. His vision and passing range were on full display, and he was rightfully applauded as he left the field. The combination of Güler and Yildiz has sparked comparisons to legendary Turkish players Hasan Sas and Hakan Şükür, hinting at a potentially exciting future for the national team. [4]
Turkey will now await the outcome of the Slovakia versus Kosovo semifinal to determine their opponent in the final playoff match. The stakes are high, as a victory would secure Turkey’s place in the 2026 World Cup, ending a long wait for fans eager to see their nation compete on the world’s biggest stage. [1] [2]
Match Details:
Substitutions
Florin Tanase (65′, Razvan Marin), Nicolae Stanciu (70′, Ianis Hagi), Orkun Kökçü (77′, Baris Alper Yilmaz), David Miculescu (86′, Daniel Bîrligea), Stefan Baiaram (87′, Valentin Mihaila), Ozan Kabak (89′, Arda Güler), Irfan Can Kahveci (89′, Hakan Çalhanoglu)
Goal
1-0, 52′: Ferdi Kadioglu
Cards
Referee: François Letexier
VAR: Willy Delajod, Jerome Brisard
Vlad Dragomir (17′,Yellow), Kerem Akturkoglu (91′,Yellow), Kahveci (91′,Yellow)
The Turkish team will undoubtedly be closely monitored as they prepare for the final playoff match, with hopes high that Güler and his teammates can deliver a historic qualification for the 2026 World Cup. Fans will be eager to see if they can maintain this momentum and secure their place among the world’s elite.
