Sports Writers’ Reactions to Wales – Turkey Match: “To Be Honest, I Didn’t Like It! Senseless, Rebellious Behavior…”
Our National Team visited Wales in the first match of Group 4 in League B of the UEFA Nations League. The first half ended in a 0-0 draw, and although the team played better in the second half, Barış Alper’s red card left us with 10 men. Despite this, there were no goals in the remaining time, and both teams left the field with one point each in their opening game.
Montella: “Not Losing Is Very Important”
The Turkish National Football Team drew 0-0 with Wales in their first match of Group 4 in League B of the UEFA Nations League. After the game, head coach Vincenzo Montella shared his thoughts during a press conference. The Italian coach started by saying that a draw was not a bad result, especially after being down to 10 men.
“The opponent controlled possession better than us in the first half, but I don’t recall them having too many shots, despite appearing dangerous. I think Mert made one save. The players are physically and mentally tired. They only had a one-week break after the European Championship, whereas the Welsh players came in more rested. That’s one of the reasons. Overall, I’m satisfied. After going down to 10 men, we didn’t allow the opposition too many chances with our organization. In two days, we’ll have a very important match against Iceland, who recently beat England. Despite these challenges, we’re closely monitoring the players and their matches. We’re aware of these difficulties, but we will do our best,” he said.
Hakan Discusses His Injury
Captain Hakan Çalhanoğlu also evaluated the match, which ended in a 0-0 draw against Wales. Çalhanoğlu stated, “We didn’t start the way we wanted. We could have built the play better from the back. Wales put us in a tough position, they are a physical team. After the red card in the second half, we played with more determination. In the end, getting one point from here is important.”
When asked about his injury, the successful midfielder responded, “Thank God, I’m feeling better. I’ve been resting for four days, and I’m good now. Hopefully, I’ll play in the next match.”
Commenting on Arda Güler being listed as one of the best young players and his own nomination for the Ballon d’Or, Hakan said, “We’re both very happy. My teammates and I want to represent our country in the best way possible. I have a great relationship with Yıldıray Ağabey (Bastürk), and he often calls me. We haven’t spoken yet, but we were on vacation together recently. He’s been very supportive. I’m really happy. I know it’s tough, but being on that list is a great honor for me.”
Bellamy: “I Look to the Future With Hope”
Speaking at the post-match press conference, Bellamy said, “My players played excellently. They were great in our preparations, and they reflected that on the field. We had very little time together, but they gave me a lot of confidence. In football, not everything goes according to plan. Maybe you don’t win, and I prepared myself for the worst, but it was a good start. I am hopeful for the future of this team. We focused on the game. Analyzing Turkey’s matches was beneficial for me, as I was able to convey their strengths and weaknesses to my players. There are things we need to fix, but I look to the future with great hope,” he stated.
