New Delhi: The Euro 2024 quarter finals have started and one of the most intriguing matchups pits the established Dutch team against a surging Turkish squad at Berlin’s iconic Olympiastadion tonight. The Netherlands, boasting a new generation of talent alongside experienced veterans, are looking to solidify their revival after the victory over Romania in the last round.
However, standing in their way are the Turkish side brimming with confidence after a surprise run to the last eight. This clash promises a battle between the experience and youthful exuberance with several key talking points taking centre stage.
Can Arda Guler live up to the ‘Turkish Messi’ title?
Arda Guler of Turkiye seen in action during the UEFA EURO 2024 match between Austria and Turkiye at Red Bull Arena. Final score: Austria 1: 2 Turkiye. (Photo by Grzegorz Wajda/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)
Arda Guler has proved to be a goal scoring machine for Real Madrid in his debut La Liga season with six goals in 10 appearances. Guler has even emerged as a breakout star of Euro 2024. The 19 year old has drawn comparisons to Lionel Messi with his dazzling footwork, close control and knack for creating scoring opportunities. Guler’s performance against Austria in the Round of 16 was nothing short of electrifying.
Guler assisted his side’s first goal in their narrow 2-1 win. He is the third teenager to both score and assist in the same edition of the UEFA European Championship after Wayne Rooney and Cristiano Ronaldo, who both did so at EURO 2004.
Earlier, he had scored one of Turkey’s three goals in their 3-1 victory over Georgia but was not able to keep the same goalscoring form against Spain. But the 19 year old tormented the Austrian defense in the Round of 16.
However, the Netherlands offer a far sterner test. Their central midfield marshalled by the experience of Jong is adept at stifling the opposition attack. Guler’s ability to navigate tight spaces and create magic against a more disciplined Dutch midfielder will be a fascinating subplot. A dominant performance on this stage could help him solidify his status as a ‘Turkish Messi’.
Mert Gunok set for another busy night?
Mert Gunok, Goalkeeper of Turkiye pointing during the UEFA EURO 2024 round of 16 match between Austria and Turkiye at Football Stadium Leipzig on July 2, 2024 in Leipzig, Germany. (Photo by Richard Sellers/Sportsphoto/Allstar via Getty Images)
Mert Gunok the promising Turkish goalkeeper has been a rock at the back of his team throughout the tournament. His reflexes and shot stopping ability were crucial in securing narrow victories against Denmark and Austria. All because of him Turkey have comfortably faced the most shots on their goal of any quarterfinalist- 59 after Austria’s barrage of 21.
The Netherlands possess a potent attacking force led by the in form Cody Gakpo. The Liverpool forward has been a joint top scorer at Euro 2024 showcasing a clinical finishing touch inside the penalty area. Gunko needs to be well prepared and can expect a barrage of shots from the Dutch attackers, particularly crosses aimed at Memphis Depay. His communication with the backline and ability to command his area will be vital in keeping Dutch at bay.
Another stellar performance from Gunok could propel Turkey to a historic semifinal appearance but a shaky showing might see an end to their Euro journey.
Will Cody Gakpo come up with another surprise?
Cody Gakpo of the Netherlands looks on during the Round of 16 – UEFA EURO 2024 match between Romania and Netherlands at Munich Football Arena on July 2, 2024 in Munich, Germany. (Photo by Joris Verwijst/BSR Agency/Getty Images)
Cody Gakpo has been the Netherlands shining light in the dark. His pace, movement and finishing have instilled a sense of belief in the Dutch camp. At 25 he is the youngest Oranje player to score and assist in a knockout match in a major tournament since Marco van Basten in the final Euro 1988.
Gakpo has scored three and assisted one in the Oranje’s passage through to the last eight. Which means he is joint four as the highest goal scorer in this tournament and is one of the favourites to win the tournament Golden Boot.
Gakpo has been a real threat for the opposition at the Euros, cutting in from his starting position on the left side of the Netherlands starting three. In fact, across the past two international tournaments the only European with more goals than Gakpo’s six in nine matches is Mbappe who has nine in 10 matches.
However, the Turks can successfully mark Gakpo out of the game which will force the Netherlands to look for alternative avenues in attack. Conversely, if Gakpo manages to find pockets of space and exploit weaknesses in the Turkish defense it could spell trouble for the underdogs.
As Euro 2024 heats up, can the Netherlands overcome Turkey’s rising stars in the quarter final clash? But before that take a look at the talking points between the two. Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
