Türkiye Triumphs with 4-1 Victory Over Georgia in World Cup Qualifiers as Calhanoglu Celebrates 100th Cap Achievement
In a decisive performance, Türkiye’s national football team triumphed over Georgia with a 4-1 victory during the 2026 FIFA World Cup European Qualifiers. The match took place on October 14, 2025, at Kocaeli Stadium in Izmit, Türkiye. This win reinforces Türkiye’s strong standing in Group E as it aims for a World Cup berth.
Key Match Highlights
- Opening Goal: Merih Demiral scored Türkiye’s fourth goal in the 52nd minute, soaring high to connect with a corner from Captain Hakan Calhanoglu.
- Georgia’s Response: The only goal for Georgia came in the 64th minute, with Kochorashvili finishing off an assist from Davitashvili.
- Missed Opportunity: Khvicha Kvaratskhelia had a chance late in the match but his shot went over the crossbar.
Significant Milestones
Captain Hakan Calhanoglu achieved a personal milestone during this match. He was honored for reaching 100 caps in international play, receiving a plaque before the match. With this game, he marked his 101st appearance, tying the record held by Emre Belozoglu and securing fourth place among Türkiye’s most-capped players.
Attendance and Support
The match drew attention not only for its display of football but also for the presence of political figures. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Georgian President Mikheil Kavelashvili were both in attendance, showcasing their support for their national teams.
Charitable Contributions
In a significant gesture, the Turkish Football Federation announced that proceeds from the ticket sales will be donated to the people of Gaza. This decision was made in light of the ongoing humanitarian crisis faced by the region. The federation emphasized the importance of unity and support for the national team.
Conclusion
Türkiye’s 4-1 victory over Georgia not only underscored the team’s emerging strength in the qualifiers but also highlighted a sense of community and social responsibility through its charitable initiatives. As they continue their journey in the World Cup qualifiers, the focus remains firmly on achieving success on the international stage.
