Turkey fans made their presence known in Germany as they celebrated the nation’s dramatic 2-1 victory over Austria.
A masterclass performance by Merih Demiral cemented Turkey’s spot in the quarterfinals, with the side overcoming the loss of star midfielder Haken Calhanoglu and defender Samet Akaydin due to suspension.
An injury-time wonder save by Turkish goalkeeper Mert Gunok off attacking Austrian
midfielder Christoph Baumgartner preserved Turkey’s participation at the Euro’s as Demiral found the net twice.
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Witnessing the city of Leipzig becoming a sea of red epitomised a tournament that has two home teams – with over 2.8 million people with Turkish roots currently residing in Germany.
The largest influx of Turkish immigrants to Germany occurred in the 1950s as part of the Wirtschaftswunder (economic boom), particularly in West Germany, as the nation encouraged workers from places such as Turkey, modern-day Serbia, and Montenegro to migrate.
Turkey’s run to the quarterfinal highlights a cultural identity centred around football, with the German Turkish community overjoyed to be able to support both of their national teams.
Merih Demiral of Turkey celebrates their first goal during the UEFA EURO round of 16 match between Austria and Turkey at Football Stadium Leipzig. Offside via Getty Images
Speaking with Turkish fans prior to the game, a sense of pride and optimism resonated from their voices as memories of their 2008 Euro run to the semi-finals has supporters once again believing they can upset the more storied European nations.
Turkish manager Vincenzo Montella praised the heart shown by his players and the support the team is receiving after their victory over Austria.
“I saw Turkish heart today and that’s what I love about this country,” said Montella.
“We’ve got a huge following. There’s passion and the love is really visceral back home in Turkey so I’m very happy to have handed Turks a bit of pride.”
Turkish supporters. Getty
The unbounded passion which the Turkish fans hold for their national team is something rarely witnessed as even the heavy downpour in Leipzig could not abate the throbbing numbers of Turkish supporters.
For Montella and his team, the challenge of the Dutch and their own Oranje army awaits in what promises to be an electric atmosphere.
For Turkey, the chance to play at the Olympiastadion presents a special opportunity for the team with over 250,000 German Turks residing in Berlin.
Turkey will welcome back Akaydin and Calhanoglu from suspension in the quarterfinal clash, however, will be without midfielder Orkun Kokcu who serves a one-match suspension.
Mert Gunok of Turkiye saves the headed shot of Christoph Baumgartner of Austria (not pictured) during the UEFA EURO round of 16 match between Austria and Turkiye at Football Stadium Leipzig. Dan Mullan via Getty Images
Turkish defender Merih Demiral, who scored the match-sealing goal against Austria, is also in doubt for the clash as he is investigated for allegedly making a gesture associated with the Grey Wolves – a far-right extremist group closely linked to Turkey’s ruling party.
UEFA confirmed a decision on his eligibility will be confirmed before the clash on Sunday (AEST).
Regardless of these possible setbacks, Turkey fans will turn out in full force like they have all tournament as they look to push the Turkish team to new levels in their home away from home.