Turkey 1-0 Montenegro: Turkey’s Victory Seals the Day
Turkey fought hard to secure a 1-0 win over a determined Montenegro in their UEFA Nations League match. It was a contest that displayed the resilience and persistence of both sides, but ultimately, it was Turkey’s tenacity that saw them through to victory.
This match, which took place on October 11, 2024, was characterized by numerous chances, tactical substitutions, and key moments that defined the outcome.
First Half: A Stalemate with Close Calls
The first half was a tight battle, with both teams showing discipline in defense while looking for opportunities to break through. Turkey, who enjoyed the lion’s share of possession, tried to build momentum early. With 64% possession in the match overall, it was clear that Turkey dominated the game on the ball, attempting to unlock the Montenegrin defense.
Despite their control, Turkey struggled to create clear-cut opportunities in the opening period. Their best chance came in the 13th minute when Merih Demiral rose highest to meet a corner kick but sent his header over the bar. Turkey’s attempts from distance and set pieces were often thwarted by Montenegro’s well-organized defense.
Montenegro, though largely on the back foot, were not without chances of their own. They made attempts to break out on the counter, but Turkey’s defense remained solid, keeping the scoreline level.
The first half ended with neither side able to break the deadlock, though it was clear that Turkey were the more proactive team in searching for the lead.
Second Half: The Game Comes to Life
The second half saw more intensity as both teams returned from the break with renewed energy. Turkey’s coach Vincenzo Montella made a crucial change at half-time, bringing on Bertug Yildirim in place of Baris Alper Yilmaz. This substitution helped Turkey increase their attacking impetus, as they began to push Montenegro deeper into their own half.
In the 56th minute, Turkey came agonizingly close to scoring when Orkun Kokcu unleashed a powerful shot from the edge of the box. The ball struck the post with a thunderous sound, leaving the crowd in disbelief as Turkey were denied a goal by inches.
Montenegro’s defense continued to hold firm, with goalkeeper Igor Nikic making several crucial saves to keep his team in the game. He was particularly alert in the 85th minute when he stopped Hakan Calhanoglu’s shot from close range.
The Decisive Moment
The deadlock was finally broken in the 69th minute, much to the relief of the home fans. Kenan Yildiz, who had been introduced just moments earlier, made an immediate impact by creating the chance that led to the goal. Yildiz’s initial shot was blocked, but Irfan Can Kahveci, another substitute, was on hand to pounce on the rebound and coolly slot the ball into the net, making it 1-0 to Turkey.
This goal was a testament to Turkey’s persistence. Their relentless pressure finally paid off as they found a way past Montenegro’s solid backline. Kahveci’s strike was enough to secure the victory, but Turkey continued to search for a second goal to put the game beyond doubt.
Montenegro’s Response
Montenegro, now trailing, had to adjust their game plan. Coach Robert Prosinecki made attacking substitutions in an attempt to get his team back into the match. Stevan Jovetic and Milutin Osmajic were brought on to add firepower upfront, but Turkey’s defense stood tall.
Montenegro had a few promising moments, particularly from set pieces, but they couldn’t find the equalizer. Their best opportunity came in the dying moments of the match when a long ball into the box caused confusion in Turkey’s defense, but goalkeeper Ugurcan Cakir came out to claim the ball and diffuse the danger.
Montenegro’s efforts to break down Turkey’s defense were commendable, but they lacked the cutting edge needed to find a breakthrough.
Positives and Negatives for Turkey
Positives:
1. Solid Defense: Turkey’s defense was well-organized and disciplined throughout the match. They limited Montenegro’s chances and dealt well with set pieces. Merih Demiral and his defensive partners were key in keeping Montenegro at bay.
2. Substitutions Paid Off: Montella’s substitutions, particularly bringing on Yildiz and Kahveci, changed the game. Both players were directly involved in the winning goal, and their impact off the bench was significant.
3. Dominating Possession: Turkey’s ability to control possession (64%) and dictate the tempo of the game was crucial. They kept Montenegro pinned back for much of the match, reducing their opponents’ ability to create sustained pressure.
Negatives:
1. Missed Chances: Despite their dominance, Turkey’s finishing let them down at times. Kokcu’s shot that hit the post and Demiral’s missed header were moments where they could have extended their lead earlier in the match.
2. Lack of Creativity in the First Half: Turkey struggled to create clear-cut opportunities in the first half, and it wasn’t until the second period that they truly tested Montenegro’s defense. A more dynamic attacking approach from the start could have yielded better results.
Positives and Negatives for Montenegro
Positives:
1. Defensive Resilience: Montenegro’s defense held strong for large parts of the match, particularly in the first half. They frustrated Turkey’s attackers and made it difficult for them to find space in the final third.
2. Goalkeeper Performance: Igor Nikic was one of Montenegro’s standout players, making a series of important saves to keep his team in the game. His reflexes and positioning were excellent, and without him, the scoreline could have been more one-sided.
Negatives:
1. Lack of Attacking Threat: Montenegro struggled to create meaningful chances. With only 36% possession and just three shots on target, they failed to test Turkey’s defense enough. Their counter-attacks lacked pace and precision, and they didn’t provide enough support to their forwards.
2. Late Response: Montenegro only began to make attacking substitutions after going a goal down. A more proactive approach earlier in the game might have given them a better chance of securing a result.
Key Moments
56th Minute: Orkun Kokcu’s powerful strike hits the post, denying Turkey an opening goal.
69th Minute: Irfan Can Kahveci scores the decisive goal after pouncing on a rebound from Kenan Yildiz’s shot.
85th Minute: Igor Nikic makes a crucial save to stop Hakan Calhanoglu from extending Turkey’s lead.
Conclusion
Turkey’s 1-0 victory over Montenegro was a hard-fought and well-earned result. Their patience, defensive solidity, and impactful substitutions made the difference in a match where chances were few and far between. Montenegro showed resilience but lacked the attacking spark needed to turn the game in their favor.
As the UEFA Nations League progresses, both teams will reflect on this match. Turkey can take confidence from their ability to grind out a result, while Montenegro will look to build on their defensive strength and improve their attacking play.
