Portugal dominated Turkey with a comfortable 3-0 victory on Saturday, securing their spot in the Euro 2024 knockout stage as Group F winners. Bernardo Silva, Samet Akaydin (own goal), and Bruno Fernandes provided the goals in a one-sided affair.
Portugal started aggressively, constantly pressuring the Turkish defense. Their efforts paid off in the 21st minute when Silva, seizing a deflected cross from Nuno Mendes, fired home his first-ever goal at a major tournament.
Turkey, aiming to end their losing streak against Portugal in European Championships, almost responded immediately, but Pepe's crucial tackle denied Orkun Kokcu a clear scoring opportunity.
Disaster struck for Turkey just before halftime. Goalkeeper Ugurcan Çakir misjudged a back pass from Samet Akaydin, resulting in a comical own goal that doubled Portugal's lead.
The second half saw Portugal maintain control. A brilliant long pass from substitute Ruben Neves found Cristiano Ronaldo, who unselfishly squared the ball to Bruno Fernandes for an easy tap-in, putting the game beyond doubt.
Despite bringing on young star Arda Guler, Turkey struggled to create clear-cut chances. The match was further disrupted by several pitch invaders in the closing stages, all seeking a moment with Cristiano Ronaldo.
Portugal will now look to continue their winning form in the knockout stages, while Turkey face a must-win game against the Czech Republic to keep their Euro 2024 hopes alive.
