Demiral's brace powers Turkey past spirited Austria
Turkey progressed to the quarterfinals of Euro 2024 with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Austria in Leipzig on Tuesday. Centre-back Merih Demiral was the hero for Turkey, netting twice early on to put his side in the driving seat.
Michael Gregoritsch pulled one back for Austria with a well-taken finish, but it was not enough to spark a comeback. Turkey held on to book a last-eight clash with Netherlands.
The game started at a furious pace as Demiral broke the deadlock inside a minute from close range. Ayhan's corner led to chaos in the box and the defender was on hand to lash home.
Turkey continued to threaten on the break as talented youngsters like Arda Guler caused problems. Demiral doubled the lead shortly before the hour mark with another clinical header.
Austria regrouped and were rewarded for their pressure when Gregoritsch guided in from the edge of the box. Ralf Ragnick's men fashioned more chances but could not find an equaliser.
In the end, Turkey held firm to claim their spot in Berlin. Their stout defence and swift counter-attacks saw them overcome a valiant Austrian effort to reach the last eight.
