Head coach Vincenzo Montella faces a significant challenge in selecting Turkey’s starting lineup for their crucial Euro 2024 last-16 clash against Austria on Tuesday.
A dramatic and ill-tempered group stage finale against the Czech Republic left Turkey with a number of selection headaches. While they secured a last-minute victory and a runner-up spot, the match resulted in a hefty 11 yellow cards (including two red cards) for the Turks.
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This means captain Hakan Calhanoglu and defender Samet Akaydin are suspended for the Austria match, with ten other players at risk of missing a potential quarter-final if cautioned.
Turkey’s tournament journey has been characterized by inconsistency, forcing Montella to make eight changes for the Czech Republic win following a heavy 3-0 defeat to Portugal.
Potential Lineup:
Goalkeeper: Mert Gunok, who started two of the group games, is likely to continue between the sticks.
Defense: Mert Muldur and Ferdi Kadioglu offer some stability at full-back positions. With Akaydin suspended, Abdulkerim Bardakci (returning from his own ban) could partner with Merih Demiral in central defense.
Midfield: Orkun Kokcu is the frontrunner to replace the suspended Calhanoglu in midfield.
Attack: Montella opted for young wingers Arda Guler and Kenan Yildiz in the last match, but their lack of creativity might lead to the selection of more experienced players like Kerem Akturkoglu or Irfan Kahveci. The manager did manage to find Baris Alper’s strongest position on the right wing in the second half so we could see him stay there. Cenk Tosun scored after his introduction and a striker could be a welcome addition to this side.
Finding the right balance between experience and attacking prowess will be crucial for Montella. He will need to work his magic to create a winning lineup despite the suspensions and inconsistent form.
Predicted Turkey XI: Gonuk; Muldur, Bardakci, Demiral, Kadioglu; Ozcan, Yuksek; Guler, Kocku, Akturkoglu; Yilmaz
