Turkey's national team made a bitter return to the World Cup after 24 years, suffering an unexpected defeat against Australia. The result surprised everyone.
Montella's strikerless game plan was risky. Kerem Aktürkoğlu was ineffective against towering defenders. Long-range shots and crosses were fruitless.
Arda Güler and Hakan Çalhanoğlu were slow in decision-making. Their shots were blocked. Substitutions also raised questions. Why bring on defensive players like Salih Özcan and Mert Müldür while trailing?
Australia won with only 28% possession. This shows that modern football is not about having the ball, but how you use it.
The euphoria problem was evident. The team became complacent after recent successes. Players seemed more interested in creating highlights than playing football. The opponent punished this carelessness.
Nothing is lost yet. Turkey can still advance with positive results in upcoming matches. We wish success to our brother country.
