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Turkey Qualifies for the World Cup: Key Moments and Hero Players

Turkey has returned to the World Cup after 24 years, beating Kosovo 1‑0 in the European playoff final. Kerem Aktürkoğlu scored the...

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Turkey World Cup qualification

PRISTINA, Kosovo — March 31, 2026 – Turkey has finally returned to the World Cup after a 24-year absence, defeating Kosovo 1‑0 in the European playoff final.

The winning goal came in the 53rd minute when Kerem Aktürkoğlu finished a move created by Kenan Yıldız and Orkun Kökçü. Turkey’s goalkeeper Uğurcan Çakır made several key saves to preserve the lead.

“My childhood dream has come true. We are going to the World Cup!” said Turkey captain Hakan Çalhanoğlu, highlighting the emotional moment for the team and its fans.

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Turkey’s last World Cup appearance was in 2002, when they finished third. Since then, the team struggled to qualify, narrowly missing out in several campaigns.

Earlier in the playoffs, Turkey beat Romania 1‑0 to reach the final against Kosovo. The victory secured their place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, bringing celebrations across Turkey.

This win is also a triumph for the players who stepped up at key moments: Aktürkoğlu with the goal, Çakır in goal, and the midfield duo of Yıldız and Kökçü, who orchestrated the winning play.

Turkey will now prepare for the World Cup, where they will face tough competition in the group stage. But for now, the focus remains on the historic return and the joy of qualification.

Tags:

#Championship#FIFA World Cup#Turkey

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