Demiral’s Double Sends Turkey to Euro 2024 Quarter-Finals

Merih Demiral scored twice, including the fastest knockout-stage goal in European Championship history, as Turkey defeated Austria to secure a quarter-final match against the Netherlands.

In what has been described as the best game of the tournament so far, the thrilling encounter took place in pouring rain and was played at a frenetic pace, with both teams driven forward by their passionate supporters.

Turkey set the tone early, with Demiral scoring just 57 seconds into the match. Arda Güler’s corner was not cleared, and Demiral capitalized from close range, sending the Turkish fans at Leipzig’s Red Bull Arena into a frenzy.

Just before the hour mark, the same duo struck again. With Austria applying pressure, a rare Turkish attack resulted in another Güler corner, which the 6ft 4in Demiral powerfully headed home.

Despite Austria’s relentless efforts, including a stunning save by Turkey’s goalkeeper Mert Günok to deny an equalizer, Turkey held on to their lead. Austria’s journey in the tournament comes to an end, while Turkey advances to their first Euros quarter-final since 2008. They will now face the Netherlands at the Olympiastadion in Berlin on Saturday.