15.10.2025 15:20
After the match in which the Turkish National Team defeated Georgia 4-1 in the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers, moments of young star Kenan Yıldız praying on the field were captured by cameras. The national football player's sincere images quickly received thousands of likes and shares on social media. However, the post made by journalist-writer Memduh Bayraktaroğlu regarding these images sparked a major controversy.
After the A National Team's 4-1 victory over Georgia in the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers match, moments of young star Kenan Yıldız praying on the field were captured by cameras.
The sincere images of the national football player quickly received thousands of likes and shares on social media. However, journalist-writer Memduh Bayraktaroğlu's post regarding these images sparked a major controversy.
CONTROVERSIAL COMMENT
Bayraktaroğlu shared the moment when Kenan Yıldız was praying, stating, "Do you remember, they prayed just like this before the match against Spain where they conceded 6 goals, but they were humiliated against the strong Spaniards who came out without praying..."
“Now let me get to the point... If you manage these kids with intelligence, they can create wonders just like in the matches against Bulgaria and Georgia... Just teach them that it is not prayers but intelligence and strength that win matches,” he expressed.
Here is that post;
REACTIONS FLOODED ON SOCIAL MEDIA
Users described Bayraktaroğlu's words as "disrespect for freedom of belief." Many football fans shared supportive messages for Kenan Yıldız, emphasizing that living his faith is entirely a personal choice. Comments like "Prayers do not harm anyone, criticizing someone's belief does not suit anyone" received thousands of interactions.
SUPPORT MESSAGES FOR THE YOUNG STAR
National football player Kenan Yıldız received numerous support messages from both fans and the football community. Some users argued that "Kenan should be talked about for his talent, not his prayers," stating that the focus should be on the athlete's success.
Here are some of the comments made under the post;
- "It happens with the combination of intelligence and strength. First, you have to make an effort, then you will ask with prayer."
- "My grandfather says both are necessary. It doesn't work without one. Doesn't God say that a person only gets the reward for their effort?"
- "Throw a stone into the well, let the smart ones try to get it out. I can't even call it a silly post."
- "What if they prayed not to win but to finish the match without getting injured?"