08.09.2025 09:34
In the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers, Turkey suffered a heavy defeat of 6-0 against Spain. After the match, commentator Nihat Kahveci criticized the team's performance, stating, "We expected a miracle, but we experienced a disaster. Okay, Spain is the reigning European Champion, but you are also a recent quarter-finalist. Is there really such a big difference between a team that has reached the quarter-finals and a champion team? That breaks my heart."
In the second match of Group E of the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers, our National Football Team faced the reigning European champion Spain. The match played in Konya ended in a significant defeat of 6-0, and commentator Nihat Kahveci reacted strongly after the match.
"CAN THERE BE SUCH A GAP?"
Nihat Kahveci stated, "Spain was already the favorite. You can play 10 matches and win one. We hoped for a miracle, but we experienced a disaster. Okay, Spain is the reigning European Champion, but you are also a quarter-finalist. Can there be such a gap between a team that has reached the Quarter-Finals and a champion team? That’s what breaks my heart. It ended 6-0. I’m writing -5 for us, not 0," he said.
"A PLAYER CANNOT BE LIKE THIS AT 18"
Continuing his statements, Kahveci said, "Can it be this much? The player who scored 3 goals plays as number 8. Merino played in midfield and scored 3 goals. Pedri made 1 goal and 1 assist. 2 midfield players scored 5 goals. Yamal also played very well. He is one of the best players I have watched - even if it was on television - within the borders of Turkey. A player cannot be like this at 18," he remarked.
Nihat Kahveci added, "Uğurcan had 6 saves. All were clear goal-scoring opportunities. Nico Williams hit from Konya to Kayseri in the first half. Yamal also made two very poor shots. There is not such a gap between us and Spain," he concluded.