In a tension-filled encounter at Hamburg’s Volksparkstadion, Turkey clinched a coveted spot in the knockout stage of EURO 2024, overcoming a resilient Czech Republic side 2-1 in a match brimming with drama and incident. Cenk Tosun emerged as the hero, netting a decisive goal in stoppage time to seal Turkey’s victory and send their passionate fans into raptures.
The game was a rollercoaster of emotions, amplified by the Czech Republic being reduced to 10 men early in the contest. Despite the numerical disadvantage, the Czechs displayed remarkable fighting spirit, pushing Turkey to their limits until the very last whistle. Substitute Tosun’s late strike, however, extinguished their hopes of progression, ensuring Turkey advanced as Group F runners-up.
“This is just the start,” an elated Tosun declared after the match. “I’m delighted with my goal. We spoke about it beforehand, how this is exactly the time for it.” His powerful shot inside the far post triggered scenes of jubilation among the Turkish supporters, although the celebrations briefly turned sour as a scuffle broke out between players and substitutes, resulting in further cards being brandished. Czech forward Tomas Chory received a red card amidst the melee, while Czech captain Tomas Soucek and Turkey’s Arda Guler were both cautioned.
Red Card Drama and Early Czech Setback
Romanian referee Istvan Kovacs had a busy evening, issuing a staggering 18 yellow cards and a crucial red card to Czech midfielder Antonin Barak in the 20th minute. Barak’s dismissal, for a second bookable offense after a stamp on Salih Ozcan, significantly altered the complexion of the match. His first yellow card came just minutes earlier for a tactical foul, compounding his costly error.
Czech coach Ivan Hasek expressed his disappointment for Barak, stating, “I only saw him in the break. He was sad, with his head in his hands. He really punished himself by beating himself up about it.” Barak’s absence emboldened Turkey to take the initiative, launching wave after wave of attacks. The dynamic trio of Kenan Yildiz, Hakan Calhanoglu, and Arda Guler posed constant threats to the Czech defense with their skill and creativity.
Calhanoglu Breaks the Deadlock, Soucek Equalizes
Turkey’s relentless pressure finally paid off early in the second half. In the 51st minute, Hakan Calhanoglu expertly slotted a low shot inside the far post, leaving Czech goalkeeper Jindrich Stanek helpless. Stanek had moments earlier produced a stunning save to deny Mert Muldur, but could not prevent Calhanoglu’s powerful strike. Unfortunately for the Czechs, Stanek sustained an injury during his earlier save attempt and had to be replaced by Matej Kovar.
The Czech Republic, despite being a man down, demonstrated incredible resilience and found an equalizer in the 66th minute through their captain, Tomas Soucek. Following a goalmouth scramble and a clearance off the line, Soucek pounced to score. A VAR check confirmed that Turkish goalkeeper Mert Gunok was not impeded, and the goal stood, reigniting Czech hopes.
Tosun’s Stoppage Time Winner and Czech Disappointment
With the clock ticking down, and the Czech Republic needing another goal to advance in EURO 2024, Tosun’s dramatic intervention shattered their aspirations. His composed finish in the dying moments of the game secured a Turkish victory and a place in the knockout stages.
“It’s disappointment. We all wanted to advance. We had a goal to beat them from the start but we didn’t make it, that’s disappointing,” Soucek lamented to Czech public broadcaster. He acknowledged the difficulty of playing with ten men, stating it was “very tough” and rued the goals conceded. “We all did the maximum,” Soucek added, “I have to thank all my teammates. It’s just a sad end.”
The Czech Republic concluded their EURO 2024 campaign at the bottom of Group F, while Turkey progressed as runners-up with six points. Turkey now faces Austria in Leipzig on Tuesday in the round of 16, carrying the momentum of this thrilling victory. In the other Group F match, Georgia caused a major upset, defeating group winners Portugal 2-0 to also advance as one of the best third-placed teams. This EURO 2024 tournament continues to deliver surprises and excitement, and Turkey’s dramatic win over the Czech Republic is certainly a highlight.
AP Euro 2024 Coverage
