Turkey vs Georgia Prediction: Expert Analysis and Match Preview

Georgia will make history with their first appearance at a major tournament after 14 unsuccessful attempts since the Soviet Union’s collapse. The Crusaders will debut at the Euro 2024, facing Turkey on Tuesday evening at BVB Stadium in Dortmund.

Turkey’s Strong Qualifying Record

Turkey enters the tournament with a solid track record, having won five, drawn two, and lost just one of their eight qualifying games. They were in a tough group but managed to secure their spot with impressive performances. In their previous five encounters with Georgia, Turkey has three wins, one draw, and one loss. Notably, three of Turkey’s last five matches in all competitions ended with fewer than three goals scored.

Georgia’s Tough Road to the Euros

Georgia faced a challenging qualifying group featuring Spain, Scotland, and Norway. Despite not advancing directly, they thrived in the playoffs, defeating Luxembourg and Greece to secure their inaugural appearance at a major tournament. They now face Turkey, who are eager to make amends for their disappointing campaign at the previous Euro.

Predicted Lineups and Team News

Turkey’s Lineup and Injuries

Turkey will start the tournament without three key Fenerbahce players: Ismail Yuksek, Caglar Soyuncu, and Ferdi Kadioglu, all sidelined due to injuries. Despite these setbacks, Turkey’s lineup is robust, featuring a 4-5-1 formation with Cakir in goal and a solid defensive line including Celik, Demiral, Kabak, and Ozkacar.

Turkey (4-5-1): Cakir – Celik, Demiral, Kabak, Ozkacar – Ozcan, Kokcu, Yildiz, Calhanoglu, Akturkoglu – Tosun

Georgia’s Key Players

Georgia enters the match without fresh injury concerns. All eyes will be on Napoli’s star Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, with Valencia’s keeper Giorgi Mamardashvili also expected to be a standout. Georgia’s formation is a 3-5-2, emphasizing a strong midfield presence.

Georgia (3-5-2): Mamardashvili – Kashia, Kvirkvelia, Dvali – Kakabadze, Kochorashvili, Kiteishvili, Chakvetadze, Shengelia – Mikautadze, Kvaratskhelia

Turkey’s Redemption Mission

Turkey aims to redeem themselves after a poor performance at the previous Euro and missing out on the World Cup in Qatar. They had a strong qualifying run with five wins, two draws, and just one defeat against strong rivals such as Croatia, Wales, Armenia, and Latvia. Although recent friendlies have seen a drop in form, coach Vincenzo Montella has been experimenting to find the ideal XI for the Euro.

Georgia’s Defensive Improvements

Georgia showed significant defensive improvements under head coach Willy Sagnol, particularly in the playoffs where they did not concede against Luxembourg and Greece. They also allowed only one goal in their recent friendly win over Montenegro.

Prediction: Turkey to Win

Turkey’s overall quality and head-to-head record give them the upper hand. They have a dominant history in this matchup, with three wins, one draw, and one loss in their last five meetings with Georgia. Despite Georgia’s defensive improvements, Turkey’s experience and talent should lead them to victory. Back Turkey to win at 1.72 odds.

Prediction: Under 2.5 Goals

Considering Georgia’s defensive stance and Turkey’s recent match statistics, it’s likely this game will have fewer than three goals. Back the Under 2.5 goals pick at 1.66 odds.

In conclusion, while Georgia’s historic debut is commendable, Turkey’s experience and form make them the favorites in this Euro 2024 opener.