UEFA Nations League: Iceland 2-4 Turkey

In the UEFA Nations League B, the Turkish National Team faced Iceland away and emerged victorious with a score of 4-2, maintaining their position at the top of the group with 10 points.

The match, held in Iceland, started poorly for Turkey as they fell behind in just the third minute, with Oskarsson scoring for the hosts.

However, the tide turned in the second half. In the 63rd minute, İrfan Can Kahveci equalized with a precise long-range shot. Just four minutes later, Hakan Çalhanoğlu converted a penalty to give Turkey the lead.

Iceland fought back and leveled the score again in the 83rd minute with a header from Gudjohnsen. Yet, Arda Güler restored Turkey’s lead in the 88th minute, and in stoppage time, Kerem Aktürkoğlu sealed the victory with a well-placed shot, finalizing the score at 4-2.

Hakan Çalhanoğlu’s Unfortunate Moment

In the 54th minute, Hakan Çalhanoğlu scored from the penalty spot, but the goal was disallowed after the referee determined that he had touched the ball twice due to slipping during the kick.

Leadership Maintained

With this win, Turkey increased their points to 10 and moved closer to promotion to League A, while Iceland remained at 4 points. Turkey’s closest rival, Wales, is in second place with 8 points. If Turkey defeats Wales in their next match, they will secure promotion to League A.

Match Highlights

• 3rd minute: Iceland took the lead with Oskarsson’s goal, scoring from a right-angle shot past goalkeeper Uğurcan.
• 63rd minute: İrfan Can Kahveci equalized with a stunning long-range shot.
• 67th minute: Çalhanoğlu converted a penalty, putting Turkey ahead.
• 83rd minute: Gudjohnsen equalized for Iceland with a header.
• 88th minute: Arda Güler scored to regain the lead for Turkey.
• 90+5th minute: Kerem Aktürkoğlu added the fourth goal to secure the win.

Starting XI

Iceland: Valdimarsson, Fridriksson, Ingason, Gudmundsson, Óskarsson, Tómasson, Anderson, Grétarsson, Traustason, Ellertsson, Gudjohnsen

Turkey: Uğurcan, Zeki Çelik, Merih, Abdülkerim, Ferdi, Hakan, Orkun, İrfan Can, Arda, Kenan, Kerem

Match Notables

• The match was initially at risk of postponement due to icy conditions, but UEFA officials decided it could proceed after inspection.
• Coach Vincenzo Montella made three changes to the starting lineup compared to the previous match against Montenegro.
• Atakan Karazor was included in the squad for the first time, with the opportunity to debut if given playing time.
• Turkish Football Federation President İbrahim Hacıosmanoğlu attended the match, along with other federation officials, showing strong support for the team.

Turkish Fans Show Support

A small number of Turkish fans were present at the Laugardalsvöllur Stadium, providing vocal support for the national team during the match.