Football37 minutes ago
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Turkey's Quiet Revolution — And Why It Could Shock the World Cup 2026
Turkey could reach the quarter-finals at the 2026 World Cup — their best performance since 2002.
⚡ Key Takeaways
- Realistic path: finish 2nd in group behind France, ahead of Denmark and Tunisia
- Hakan Çalhanoğlu and İsmail Yüksek form a disciplined, box-to-box midfield duo
- Merih Demiral is widely regarded as one of Europe’s most improved defenders
- Arda Güler, now at Real Madrid, is believed to be among the top young talents this season
- Enes Ünal reportedly in excellent form, pushing Cenk Tosun for starting striker role
▶ 📑 Contents (6)
Turkey's Predicted 26-Man Squad
Turkey’s squad is expected to feature a core of players from Süper Lig, Serie A, and Premier League clubs.
Goalkeepers Mert Günok and İrfan Can Eğribayat are understood to be in strong contention, with no clear first choice yet.
In defence, Zeki Çelik (PSG) and Umut Meraş are favourites at full-back, while Merih Demiral and Salih Özcan are likely centre-back picks.
The emergence of Can Uzun has added depth, and he is being linked with several top European sides.
The Best Starting XI and Tactical Setup
Turkey is expected to line up in a 4-2-3-1, prioritising balance and defensive solidity.
Hakan Çalhanoğlu operates as the deep-lying playmaker, shielding the backline and launching transitions.
İsmail Yüksek provides energy and late runs from midfield, while Kerem Aktürkoğlu and Arda Güler occupy the wings and the number 10 role.
"This is the most cohesive Turkish squad in 20 years" — FootballPulse tactical analyst
Enes Ünal is reportedly in excellent form and likely to start up front, with Cenk Tosun as backup.
Key Players Who Will Make or Break Their Campaign
Arda Güler is Turkey’s brightest spark. His creativity and composure could unlock tight defences.
Merih Demiral must dominate aerial duels and organise the backline under pressure.
If Kerem Aktürkoğlu can stretch play and deliver crosses, Turkey’s attack gains real threat.
Group Stage Analysis: Can Turkey Top Their Group?
Drawn with France, Denmark, and Tunisia, topping the group is unlikely.
A draw with France and wins over Denmark and Tunisia would secure second place.
The match against Tunisia could be the decisive fixture for progression.
Quarter-Finals and Beyond: The Realistic Ceiling
Advancing to the last 16 would pit Turkey against a group winner — likely a South American or strong European side.
A disciplined performance could see them reach the quarter-finals, but going further would require a golazo or defensive masterclass.
Reaching the semi-finals remains a stretch, but the quarter-finals are within reach.
FAQ
- Who is Turkey’s captain? Hakan Çalhanoğlu is expected to wear the armband.
- Is Arda Güler a guaranteed starter? Yes, if fit, due to his impact at Real Madrid.
- Who is the manager? Şenol Güneş remains in charge as of latest TFF confirmation.
- Any major injury concerns? No official reports at this stage.
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