It was a corner party in Leipzig. All three goals came from corners as Turkey defeated Austria, and it was an unexpected hero of the match.
– First of all, I would like to say how proud I am to be Turkish, I am very happy and proud, the whole team played great, says the two-goal shooter Merih Demiral according to Reuters.
European Championship in soccer
Here, Austria’s Marcel Sabitzer is hit by a thrown object – falls to the ground
Watch the incredible save in the final minutes by Turkey’s Mert Günok
The referee blew the whistle and not even a minute had passed before Turkey got their first corner. Super talent Arda Güler sent in a ball and after pinball, center back Merih Demiral slammed the ball into the roof of the net, shock start and 1-0 in front of a loud and large Turkish crowd.
It was cracking in the beginning and Austria had been able to equalize twice before five minutes had passed.
The match picture was then characterized by a lower standing Turkish defense against a wildly snorting Austria with Cristoph Baumgartner at the head, but the score remained intact.
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Hear the Austrians after the exodus: “One of the saddest days of my life” Photo: Andreea Alexandru
The second half began as the first ended. Hard pressure from Austria and several top-class scoring chances. But ball possession and fine play do not score goals, that is old fashioned. Instead, Turkey got a corner, Arda Güler stepped forward, Merih Demiral, 2-0. Undeserved? According to some, 2-0 on the board according to others.
Substitute Michael Gregoritsch reduced the score to 1-2 via a corner in the 66th minute and then began a bloodthirsty hunt for an equaliser.
Austria pushed Turkey down somewhat enormously but the solid defensive stood strong and held out to Turkish advances. The hero of the match was Demiral with his two goals, but you can also thank the goalkeeper Mert Gunok, who was responsible for a matchless save in the final minute.
– We are so happy and it is difficult to find the words right now, thanks to everyone who supported us, thanks to our supporters, says Gunok.
The Netherlands await in the quarter-finals.
Watch the rescue in the player below.
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Watch the rescue here – and hear the commentators’ wild reaction Photo: JOHN MACDOUGALL