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Portugal secured their place in the Euro 2024 knockout stages as group winners with a commanding 3-0 victory over Turkey in Dortmund.
Bernardo Silva of Manchester City opened the scoring midway through the first half, capitalizing on a deflected cross from Nuno Mendes to slot the ball past goalkeeper Altay Bayindir. Portugal’s lead doubled with a disastrous own goal by Turkish defender Samet Akaydin, whose back pass rolled into the net past a helpless Bayindir.
The Turkish supporters, who had marched to the stadium in high spirits, were silenced by these setbacks. Conversely, Portugal’s fans had much to cheer as their team showcased fluid and composed play.
Portugal’s dominance was further cemented when Cristiano Ronaldo set up Bruno Fernandes for an easy tap-in, making it 3-0 before the hour mark. This victory allows the 2016 champions to face Georgia with their group stage objectives already met, while Turkey will travel to Hamburg to face the Czech Republic, still hopeful of qualifying.
“We played at the same level as we did against the Czechs, which is very important,” said Portugal manager Roberto Martinez. “We scored first and that changed what Turkey could do. We can now face the third game with many players deserving to be in the starting XI.”
Martinez also praised Ronaldo’s selfless play amidst discussions about his impact on team dynamics. “Seeing Ronaldo, an out-and-out goalscorer, look for the assist was spectacular. It shows that the team is the most important thing.”
Despite Turkey’s efforts, including chances for Kerem Akturkoglu and Orkun Kokcu, they couldn’t break through Portugal’s solid defense and goalkeeper Diogo Costa’s sharp saves. Turkish fans voiced their displeasure with referee Felix Zwayer, feeling that too many free-kicks were awarded to Portugal.
Turkey, with three points from their win against Georgia, still have a shot at advancing. “It was a balanced game until the first goal,” said Turkey manager Vincenzo Montella. “We played equally with one of the best teams in Europe, but they were more clinical.”
Portugal’s impressive performance has heightened their supporters’ hopes for a deep run in the tournament. However, the match was briefly marred by several pitch invaders seeking photos with Ronaldo, with the forward’s patience wearing thin as the interruptions continued.
