As the European Championship unfolds, the highly anticipated clash between Turkey and Georgia promises to be a thrilling encounter.
Both teams are set to make their mark in Group F, with Turkey eyeing a strong start and Georgia making their debut in the tournament. Here's a comprehensive look at the prediction, team news, lineups, and more for this exciting matchup.
Match Preview
Turkey's Journey and Form
Turkey's best performance in a European Championship was in 2008 when they reached the semi-finals.
However, they faced early exits in both Euro 2016 and Euro 2020. Heading into this tournament, Vincenzo Montella's side will aim to overcome a rough patch, having not won any of their last five matches, including a 2-1 defeat to Poland.
Despite these challenges, Turkey topped Group D in the qualifiers, showcasing their potential.
Georgia's Historic Debut
Georgia is set to play in a major tournament for the first time in their history. After a dramatic win over Greece in the playoffs, they secured their spot in Euro 2024.
Managed by Willy Sagnol, Georgia has shown promise, winning their last friendly against Montenegro 3-1.
With standout players like Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, who has scored 15 goals in 30 appearances for his national side, Georgia aims to make a significant impact.
Team News
Turkey
Turkey has faced several injury setbacks, with key players Enes Unal, Caglar Soyuncu, and Ozan Kabak ruled out.
Despite these losses, the squad boasts talent, with Hakan Calhanoglu leading the team from midfield. Juventus' Kenan Yildiz and Real Madrid's Arda Guler are expected to play crucial roles in their attacking lineup.
Predicted Starting XI: Gunok; Ayhan, Demiral, Bardakci, Kadioglu; Ozcan, Calhanoglu; Guler, Yildiz, Akturkoglu; Yilmaz.
Georgia
Georgia will rely heavily on their star, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, and key players like goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili.
Solomon Kvirkvelia is expected to overcome an injury to start in defence, while Georges Mikautadze is set to partner with Kvaratskhelia upfront.
Predicted Starting XI: Mamardashvili; Kverkvelia, Kashia, Dvali; Kakabadze, Kiteishvili, Kochorashvili, Shengelia, Chakvetadze; Kvaratskhelia, Mikautadze.
Prediction
While Georgia is poised to score their first-ever goal at a European Championship, Turkey's experience and quality are likely to see them through.
We predict a closely fought match with Turkey edging out a 2-1 victory. This win would place Turkey in a strong position in the group, especially if Portugal also secures a victory against the Czech Republic.