Turkey Qualifies for the 2026 World Cup After 24 Years
The Turkey secured its spot in the 2026 World Cup after defeating Kosovo 1-0 in the decisive European playoffs match held on Tuesday evening in Pristina.
A Historic Return to the World Stage
This marks Turkey’s third participation in the World Cup, following its appearances in 1954 and 2002, ending a 24-year absence from the world’s biggest football competition.
The Decisive Goal
The only goal of the match was scored in the 53rd minute by Kerem Aktürkoğlu, who took advantage of an assist from Orkun Kökçü, thus securing a ticket to the World Cup for his team.
Kosovo almost took the lead in the 30th minute, but Turkish goalkeeper Uğurcan Çakır made a spectacular save on a powerful shot from Visnik Asllani, deflecting the ball onto the crossbar.
Group and Upcoming Journey
With this victory, Turkey joins Group D of the 2026 World Cup alongside the United States, Paraguay, and Australia.
It is worth noting that Turkey’s best World Cup achievement remains its semifinal run in 2002, a historic moment for Turkish football.
