Güler’s stunning strike propels Turkey to Euro 2024 victory over Georgia

DORTMUND: In a thrilling start to their Euro 2024 campaign, Turkey secured a 3-1 victory over tournament debutants Georgia amid a fervent atmosphere in Dortmund on Tuesday. The match showcased a blend of youthful talent and veteran composure, epitomized by teenager Arda Güler’s superb long-range goal.

Turkey took the lead in the 25th minute when Mert Muldur smashed a swerving volley past the helpless Georgian goalkeeper, Giorgi Mamardashvili, from the edge of the box. This early strike set the tone for a match filled with attacking intent from both sides.

Georgia, participating in their first major international tournament, quickly responded. In the 32nd minute, Georges Mikautadze turned Giorgi Kochorashvili’s precise cross past Turkish keeper Mert Gunok, who could have done better in covering his near post. The equalizer injected confidence into the Georgian team, making for a more balanced and exciting contest.

The match’s defining moment came in the 65th minute. Arda Güler, the 19-year-old prodigy fresh off a goal-scoring streak with Real Madrid, showcased his remarkable talent. Picking up the ball outside the box, Güler unleashed an unstoppable shot that curled into the top corner, leaving Mamardashvili with no chance. This goal not only restored Turkey’s lead but also highlighted Güler as a rising star on the international stage.

As the match drew to a close, Georgia pressed hard for an equalizer, even sending goalkeeper Mamardashvili forward for a series of corners. However, this desperate strategy backfired in added time when Kerem Akturkoglu capitalized on a counter-attack, breaking away to pass the ball into an empty net, sealing Turkey’s 3-1 victory.(Reuters)