Turkey: A Golden Generation Dreams of Repeating the 2002 Achievement

Turkey enters the 2026 World Cup finals with great ambitions after returning to the tournament for the first time in 24 years, benefiting from a talented generation led by Real Madrid star Arda Güler and Juventus star Kenan Yıldız.

The Turkish national team managed to reach the World Cup after overcoming Romania and Kosovo in the playoffs, losing only one match during the qualifiers against the Spanish team.

The credit for this development goes to coach Vincenzo Montella, who, since taking over the role in 2023, has succeeded in creating a sense of stability within the team and resolving the disputes that had long affected the squad in the past.

The Italian coach often relies on the 4-2-3-1 formation, with tactical flexibility that has allowed Turkey to build one of its strongest teams in the modern era.

Güler is considered the star player of the Turkish national team, having transformed from a promising talent into an influential player at the highest levels despite his young age. Along with Yıldız, he forms the core of the new Turkish project, with the public relying on them to lead the team towards a historic achievement in the tournament.

Despite Turkey having a distinguished group of players like Hakan Çalhanoğlu, Orkun Kökçü, and Ferdi Kadıoğlu, the team still suffers from the absence of a decisive striker. However, observers believe that the Turkish national team possesses a blend of talent and enthusiasm that makes it capable of surprising the big teams, especially as it will face Australia, Paraguay, and the United States in the group stage.