PRISTINA, Kosovo – As Turkey prepares for a pivotal 2026 FIFA World Cup European Qualifiers play-off final against Kosovo on Tuesday, national team manager Vincenzo Montella has emphatically defended his squad, stating that they should not bear the responsibility for the nation’s 24-year absence from the tournament. The match, set to be played in Pristina, represents a final opportunity for Turkey to secure a spot in the expanded 48-team World Cup field.
Montella addressed the media on Monday, delivering a message focused on support and shielding his players from the historical weight of expectation. “This is a final,” Montella said, as reported by Hürriyet. “We haven’t gone for 24 years, but most of our players weren’t even born then. If we haven’t gone for 24 years, they are not responsible. We want to go this time, to do our best for our country.”
The pressure surrounding the match is immense for Turkish football fans, who have watched their national team consistently fall short of World Cup qualification for over two decades. Turkey last appeared in the World Cup in 2002, reaching the semi-finals in a memorable run. The current generation of players, however, are striving to break that drought and deliver a moment of national pride.
Montella, who took charge of the Turkish national team in 2024, has overseen a period of improvement, with the team showing signs of progress in both the UEFA Nations League and FIFA rankings. He emphasized the dedication and commitment shown by his players since his arrival. “My players have given me everything,” he stated. “I came at a critical time. We beat Croatia, who hadn’t lost at home in their history. From that day on, the players have always given me everything. Everyone, playing or not, has been a fighting group. They realized that their names aren’t on the back of their shirts, but the name of a great nation.”
The Italian manager also highlighted the support he has received from the Turkish Football Federation (TFF). “I have always felt the support of the TFF since day one,” Montella added. “If I have the highest points average in official matches, it’s thanks to the support I’ve received.” He acknowledged the positive shift in perception surrounding the national team, noting that Turkey has become a side that commands respect on the international stage. “We have become a nationally respected team. We have risen in the Nations League and in the FIFA rankings. I thank everyone.”
Montella also expressed his deep connection to the country he now leads. “This country has treated me like one of their own,” he said, adding that he feels “Turkish” and enjoys a strong relationship with the TFF president. He indicated that he anticipates a collaborative decision-making process moving forward, emphasizing the cultural similarities he’s observed.
Looking ahead to the match against Kosovo, Montella acknowledged the opponent’s strengths. “Kosovo deserves to be here,” he said. “Their tactical setup is clear, they have a defined idea of how to play. We will be well prepared and know what we want to do.” He also confirmed that his focus remains solely on the Kosovo match, dismissing any consideration of potential opponents in the World Cup group stage. “I haven’t even looked at our potential World Cup opponents. I haven’t thought about what we would do against Australia, the USA, or Paraguay. We are only thinking about the Kosovo match.”
The manager also touched on the importance of unity and belief within the squad. “Our players play with their hearts, uniting everyone under our flag. We have seen what we are capable of achieving. If we act together, we can achieve anything.”
Montella’s comments underscore his commitment to fostering a positive and supportive environment for his players, as they prepare for what is arguably the most essential match in recent Turkish football history. The outcome of Tuesday’s game will determine whether Turkey can end its 24-year World Cup drought and return to the global stage. The match is scheduled to kick off at 8:00 PM local time (UTC+2) in Pristina.
Regardless of the result, Montella made it clear that his faith in his players will not waver. “I will never change my opinion of my players, no matter the outcome of the Kosovo match. I wouldn’t trade them for anything.”
What’s Next: Turkey will face either Australia, the United States, or Paraguay in the group stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup should they defeat Kosovo. The draw for the group stage will take place after the play-off finals are completed.
Archysport will have live coverage and analysis of the Turkey vs. Kosovo match. Stay tuned for updates.
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