Türkiye plays Czech Republic with eyes on next stage

Türkiye takes on the Czech Republic in a Euro 2024 Group F match on June 26, hoping to make it to the last-16 stage of the tournament in Germany.

A draw will be enough for the Turkish side to claim the second spot in the group, after missing out on the chance of topping it with June 22's 3-0 loss against Portugal.

Portugal, which plays Georgia simultaneously, is assured of the top spot in Group F regardless of the last matches' results.

Despite a good start to the tournament with a 3-1 win over Georgia, the loss against Portugal had a huge negative impact on the morale of the Turkish squad.

The team's poor level of play and coach Vincenzo Montella's tactical preferences and player choices have been harshly criticized on social media.

A main point of criticism was not fielding Arda Güler, who scored against Georgia, until the 70th minute against Portugal, when the score was already 3-0.

Although it was later revealed that the 19-year-old Real Madrid star had a risk of injury, attacks on Montella continued.

Türkiye captain Hakan Çalhanoğlu tried to pick up the pieces at a press conference on June 24.

"We didn't get the result we wanted [against Portugal], but it's not the end of the world," the Inter Milan player said.

"We sometimes lose our concentration during games and that's something we need to address. Portugal is a strong team with quality players."

Çalhanoğlu noted that the Czech Republic match will be a different challenge.

''A draw is enough for us against Czechia, but we would like to win," he said.

"We will face a fresh, strong, and hard-working team. We are a team used to overcoming difficulties."

The captain also defended Montella's decision to bench Güler.

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