Austria vs Turkey: Demiral's Double Sends Turkey to Euro 2024 Quarterfinals

In a thrilling Euro 2024 knockout match, Turkey secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Austria, booking their spot in the quarterfinals. The match, played on July 2, 2024, showcased Turkey’s resilience and Austria’s determination in a contest that kept fans on the edge of their seats until the final whistle.

Demiral's double helps Turkey beat Austria 2-1, sets up a Euro 2024 quarterfinal against Netherlands https://t.co/w6wXN3jLyF
— The Associated Press (@AP) July 3, 2024

Key Highlights of Austria vs Turkey

Record-Breaking Start: Merih Demiral gave Turkey the lead just 57 seconds into the match, scoring the fastest goal in European Championship knockout history.
Demiral’s Double: The Turkish defender struck again in the 59th minute with a powerful header, extending Turkey’s lead to 2-0.
Austria’s Comeback Attempt: Michael Gregoritsch pulled one back for Austria in the 66th minute, setting up a tense finale.
Dramatic Finish: Austria’s Christoph Baumgartner nearly equalized in stoppage time, but Turkish goalkeeper Gunok made a spectacular save to preserve the win.

Match Implications

Turkey advances to face the Netherlands in the quarterfinals on Saturday in Berlin.
Austria’s tournament ends, extending their wait for a knockout stage win in a major tournament since 1954.

The Austria vs Turkey clash exemplified the high stakes of Euro 2024’s knockout stage. Turkey’s coach Vincenzo Montella hailed the result as “historic,” matching their 2008 performance in terms of victories.

Despite missing suspended captain Hakan Calhanoglu, Turkey’s tactical approach of high pressing and quick counterattacks proved effective against Austria’s usual style of play. The Austrians dominated possession but struggled to create clear-cut chances in the first half.

Austria’s coach Ralf Rangnick acknowledged the team’s effort but lamented their lack of luck, stating, “We didn’t have the necessary luck. I believe if the game had gone to extra time we would have had a chance to win.”

As Turkey moves forward in the tournament, they’ll look to build on this performance against a strong Dutch side. For Austria, it’s a bitter end to their Euro 2024 campaign, but one that showcased their fighting spirit until the very end.

This Austria vs Turkey encounter will be remembered as a classic example of the drama and excitement that European Championship knockout football can provide.