Major criticism in Turkey after defeat by Australia at the 2026 World Cup

Turkey started the 2026 World Cup on a low note with a 0-2 defeat to Australia. The response from our own country has been harsh. Former Spor Arena reporter Muhammed Duman sharply criticizes the actions of both the players and national coach Vincenzo Montella. According to Duman, Turkey underestimated Australia and the preparation for the tournament was not serious enough.

'Everyone in Turkey assumed that we would continue as group leader. The team has not shown the commitment you would expect at a World Cup, especially given our long absence since 2002," said Duman. He mainly points to a lack of urgency and mistakes by Montella, partly because the trainer did not intervene in time during the match.


The biggest blame goes to defenders Bardakci and Demiral, who, according to Turkish analysts, played poorly and made crucial mistakes with the first Australian goal. Striker Yilmaz also made little impression. Kadioglu and Kenan Yildiz were given a chance after injuries, but were unable to leave their mark on the match. Biggest supporters Arda Güler and Hakan Çalhanoğlu played below their level.

There is now a prevailing feeling in Turkey that the next group match against Paraguay on June 20 will determine the remainder of the tournament. Duman: 'The loss against Australia should be a wake-up call. Montella is under high pressure to turn the tide.'

After 24 years, Turkey is again present at a World Cup, but the fraught return started disastrously. Supporters and analysts want the team to learn from the defeat, because at a world tournament mistakes are punished mercilessly.

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