A Tale of Two Victories: Turkey and Portugal Prepare for Euro 2024 Rematch

The upcoming Euro 2024 group stage clash between Turkey and Portugal promises to be a battle for bragging rights. While Portugal holds the upper hand in their recent encounters, Turkey will be seeking redemption, fueled by a passionate home crowd and a desire to repeat past heroics.

A History of Close Battles:

Despite not boasting a long history of meetings, the encounters between Turkey and Portugal have been significant and memorable:

• Euro domination for Portugal: Both teams have met 3 times in Euro finals and all meetings ended with a win for the Iberians - 1996, 2000 and 2008.
• Recent Domination by Portugal: Portugal has also won the semi-final match for the 2022 World Cup qualification, defeating Turkey 3-1.

Players to Watch:

Turkey:

• Arda Guler: The young Real Madrid forward burst onto the scene with a wonder goal in the opening game of Euro 2024. His pace, dribbling skills, and eye for goal make him a danger to any defense.
• Merih Demiral: The experienced center-back is a leader at the back for Turkey. His composure, aerial presence, and ability to organize the defense will be crucial against Portugal's attacking threat.
• Hakan Çalhanoğlu: The Inter Milan midfielder is the creative spark for Turkey. His vision, passing range, and ability to unlock defenses will be key for creating chances, especially if Portugal dominates possession.

Portugal (assuming Cristiano Ronaldo is fit):

• Cristiano Ronaldo: Despite never scoring against Turkey, the Portugal captain remains a talismanic figure. His leadership, experience, and goal threat will be crucial, especially if he seeks to break his personal record against them.
• Bernardo Silva: The Manchester City midfielder is a key player for Portugal's attacking creativity. His dribbling skills, passing range, and ability to create chances will be vital in breaking down the Turkish defense.
• Rúben Dias: The Manchester City defender is a rock at the back for Portugal. His composure, tackling ability, and leadership will be crucial against Turkey's pacey attack.

A Rematch with Different Dynamics:

This Euro 2024 encounter promises a different atmosphere compared to 2008. While Turkey will still have a passionate home crowd, Portugal enters as the clear favorite. However, Turkey's young talents and desire to avenge past defeats should not be underestimated. The outcome could hinge on individual moments of brilliance, tactical astuteness from the managers, and how Portugal handles the passionate atmosphere in Dortmund.