Arda Guler boosted his rising profile with a stunning goal in Turkey’s 3-1 victory over Georgia at the European Championship.
The 19-year-old forward from Real Madrid made a significant impact by scoring in the 65th minute, securing a 2-1 lead for Turkey in a tense Group F match held in Dortmund.
Guler’s remarkable performance included a skilful manoeuvre from the right flank, culminating in a powerful shot to the top corner. This goal was pivotal for Turkey, which later secured a third goal through substitute Kerem Aktürkolu during the dying moments of stoppage time.
Georgia, making its debut in an international tournament since its 1991 independence, faced a formidable atmosphere yet managed an equalizer at 1-1 with Georges Mikautadze’s goal in the 32nd minute after Mert Muldur’s earlier strike for Turkey.
Despite being a high-pressure match, Guler’s decisive play marked another highlight in a season where he returned from injury to score five goals in the last five league games. Looking ahead, Guler faces increased competition at Real Madrid with the arrivals of Kylian Mbappé and Endrick, although his talent remains undeniable under coach Carlo Ancelotti’s watch.
The match was nearly drawn as Georgia, the lowest-ranked team at Euro 2024, almost levelled the score in stoppage time. After a free-kick hit the post, a subsequent shot was cleared off the line. In the final play, with Georgian goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili forward Aktürkolu seized the opportunity to score into an empty net, sealing the win for Turkey.
