Competing in Group J of the European Qualifiers’ second round, the national team earned its tournament berth with four qualification matches remaining.
Dominant First-Half Performance Sets the Tone
The visiting Turkish squad took control early in Reykjavik, establishing a commanding 33-14 lead by the end of the first period, as documented in official match summaries. Head coach Ergin Ataman’s side maintained its offensive rhythm through the second quarter, outscoring the hosts to carry a 60-37 advantage into halftime. Cedi Osman and Onuralp Bitim led the scoring effort for Turkey with 17 points each, while Kenan Sipahi contributed 15 points in the backcourt.
Hermannsson and Palsson led the Icelandic offense with 11 points apiece, though head coach Craig Pedersen’s team could not slow down a Turkish attack that featured balanced scoring across the roster. Malachi Flynn added 13 points, while Şehmus Hazer and Yiğitcan Saybir chipped in 10 points each.
Securing the World Cup Berth With Games to Spare
Holding an 80-56 lead after the third quarter, Turkey coasted through the final ten minutes at the Laugardalshöll. The 37-point margin finalized a dominant Group J performance that guarantees the team’s presence at the upcoming global tournament.
Match statistics from the fixture highlight the depth of Ataman’s rotation:
- Turkey Top Scorers: Cedi Osman (17 points), Onuralp Bitim (17 points), Kenan Sipahi (15 points)
- Iceland Top Scorers: Hermannsson (11 points), Palsson (11 points), Thrastarson (10 points)
- Quarter Scores: 14-33, 23-27 (37-60), 19-20 (56-80), 17-30 (73-110)
- Referees: Andris Aunkrogers, Elvis Binders-Coders, Antonio Conde
With qualification secured with four matches left in the second round, the national team will approach its remaining Group J fixtures without pressure as preparations for the 2027 World Cup get underway.
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