“Portugal have chance of winning the tournament” - Turkey star labels Cristiano Ronaldo and co. as favourites to win Euro 2024 after Group F clash
Turkey midfielder Orkun Kokcu reckons Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal could go all the way at Euro 2024 after their 3-0 win at home over the Turks on Saturday (June 22). Although Ronaldo didn't find the back of the net, he provided an assist.
The 39-year-old looked good to finish off a counterattack 10 minutes after half-time but unselfishly passed to an unmarked Burno Fernandes to make it 3-0. Earlier, Bernardo Silva had given his team a 21st minute lead before Turkish defender Samet Akaydin's disastrous backpass to his goalkeeper made it 2-0.
The win confirmed the 2016 champions' place in the knockouts from Group F with a game to spare. Following A Selecao's commanding win, Kokcu reflected on their title credentials (as per Ojogo):
“We knew that Portugal would attack, I know because I play in the Portuguese League (at Benfica). I know many of these quality players. We knew it would be a very difficult game. They were better. They won. We have to congratulate them and do our best in the last meeting.
"We had a plan, but we didn't stick to it 100%. Against a team like Portugal, it is always difficult to dominate the match. I spoke a little with Antonio Silva and Joao Neves, I exchanged shirts with Joao. They are two great players, who will have great careers. Portugal have a chance (of winning the tournament), yes, among other strong teams”.
Ronaldo and Co. next take on Georgia in their final group game on Wednesday (June 26) in Gelsenkirchen.
Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo sets European Championship record in Euro 2024 win over Turkey
A Selecao captain Cristiano Ronaldo is still looking for his first goal in Euro 2024 but had a memorable outing against Turkey. His assist for Bruno Fernandes' goal was his eighth at the Euros, going level with Czech Republic legend Karol Poborsky.
Playing in a record-extending sixth European Championship at Euro 2024, the 39-year-old is looking to become the first player to score in as many editions of the competition. For context, no other player has scored in more than three.
That will also make the five-time Ballon d'Or winner the oldest scorer at the Euros, with the current record holder being Austria forward Ivica Vastic, who set the mark at Euro 2008 at the age of 38 years, eight months and 14 days.