Euro 2024: Turkey vs Austria | Demiral Double Sends Turkey to Quarters

Turkey advanced to the quarterfinals of Euro 2024 after defeating Austria 2-1 at Red Bull Arena Leipzig. Merih Demiral scored twice, the quickest knockout-stage goal in the history of the European Championship knockout stage, coming in at just 57 seconds.

In addition to breaking Turkey's record for the fastest goal in the World Cup knockout stages, this goal was also the second-earliest in the history of the UEFA European Championship. 

Just before the hour mark, a strong header gave Demiral his second goal. After Stefan Posch's flicked-on corner, Austria reduced the deficit with a goal from Michael Gregoritsch in the 66th minute, but Turkey's resilient defense held out their attempts to equalize.

Austria, which had failed to advance past this round of major tournament appearances twice in a row, was again eliminated in the round of 16. Arguably one of the tournament's best games, the match was fast-paced and torrential, while passionate fans pushed both teams.

 Turkey's goalie Gunok made a vital save with seconds remaining to secure the victory and a trip to the quarterfinals. Known for his intense play, Austria's Ralf Rangnick saw his team attack to tie the score, but Turkey's defense proved too formidable for them to penetrate.

For their first Euros quarterfinal since 2008, Turkey will now travel to Berlin, where they will play the Netherlands at the Olympiastadion on Saturday.

With the victory, Turkey advanced to the UEFA European Championship quarterfinals for the third time (they had previously done so in EURO 2000 and EURO 2008) and for the fourth time at a major tournament (including the 2002 World Cup).

The game statistics show Austria's superiority in possession and shots, but Turkey's strong defense and precision finishing were the significant factors in their triumph.

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