14.06.2026 11:00
Speaking after the National Team's 2-0 defeat against Australia, Kerem Aktürkoğlu made striking evaluations regarding the reasons for the loss. Aktürkoğlu stated that as a team, they could not stop the counterattacks. While apologizing to the fans, the national footballer gave hopeful messages for the remaining matches in the group.
Speaking after Türkiye's 2026 FIFA World Cup Group D opener loss to Australia, Kerem Aktürkoğlu made statements. Stating that they knew the opponent's game plan, Kerem said, "We knew they would sit back and look for counterattacks. As a team, we couldn't stop their counterattacks. We missed a goal, and then we conceded the first goal."
"FALLING BEHIND DEMORALIZED THE TEAM"
Addressing the turning points of the match, the national footballer highlighted the psychological impact of the first goal. Kerem Aktürkoğlu offered self-criticism, saying, "While we were playing well and had possession, falling behind demoralizes the team. Players like us needed to perform much better on the pitch."
"NO NEED TO LOOK FOR BLAME"
Stating that it is not right to look for someone to blame within the team, Kerem said they are focused on the remaining matches. The national star said, "Everything is still in our hands; we will hold our heads up. We will learn from our mistakes. There is no need to look for someone to blame."
APOLOGIZED TO THE FANS
Kerem Aktürkoğlu also sent a special message to the fans who were watching early in the morning Turkey time. The national footballer said, "Our fans, please excuse us. We made them wake up early; we wanted to gift them a victory, but it didn't happen. We will do whatever it takes on the pitch to win the remaining group matches."
EYES ON REMAINING MATCHES
Starting the World Cup with a defeat, the Turkish National Team will seek redemption in the remaining group matches. The Crescent-Stars aim to keep their chances of advancing alive with results from the matches against Paraguay and the USA.