Turkey and Montenegro clash in the UEFA Nations League as they both look to strengthen their positions in Group B4. Turkey leads the group with four points from two matches, while Montenegro sits at the bottom without a point.
Match Overview
Turkey has made a promising start to their Nations League campaign, maintaining an unbeaten record since their quarter-final exit at Euro 2024. After a goalless draw against Wales, they secured a convincing 3-1 victory over Iceland, thanks to a stunning hat-trick from Kerem Akturkoglu. Under the guidance of manager Vincenzo Montella, Turkey aims for consecutive promotions, having topped League C in the last campaign. The Crescent-Stars boast a strong home record, with seven wins in their last ten matches on home soil.
In contrast, Montenegro has struggled recently, suffering four consecutive defeats after starting the year with two victories in friendlies. The Brave Falcons lost their first two Nations League matches against Iceland (0-2) and Wales (1-2) and will be keen to avoid a fifth straight loss, which would mark an unwanted record for the national team. With head coach Robert Prosinecki aiming to turn their fortunes around, Montenegro must find a way to secure points and avoid relegation from League B.
Recent Form
– Turkey Nations League Form:
– 0-0 vs. Wales
– 3-1 vs. Iceland
– Montenegro Nations League Form:
– 0-2 vs. Iceland
– 1-2 vs. Wales
Team News
Turkey:
Turkey will miss first-choice goalkeeper Mert Gunok due to injury, with Ugurcan Cakir expected to take his place. Other notable absentees include Dogan Alemdar, Caglar Soyuncu, and Ozan Kabak. Baris Alper Yilmaz returns from suspension and is likely to start upfront. Ferdi Kadioglu has been called up and is expected to play at left-back, joining a lineup that includes key players like Hakan Calhanoglu and Arda Guler.
Montenegro:
Montenegro welcomes Preston North End’s Milutin Osmajic back into the squad despite a ban, but experienced forward Stevan Jovetic could start instead. Key midfielders Milos Brnovic and Vladimir Jovovic are set to continue in their roles, with Lazio’s Adam Marusic likely starting at right-back.
Possible Lineups
Turkey:
– Goalkeeper: Cakir
– Defenders: Muldur, Demiral, Bardakci, Kadioglu
– Midfielders: Calhanoglu, Kokcu
– Forwards: Guler, Kahveci, Akturkoglu, Yilmaz
Montenegro:
– Goalkeeper: Mijatovic
– Defenders: Marusic, Rubezic, Vujacic, Radunovic
– Midfielders: Brnovic, Jovovic
– Forwards: Camaj, Jovetic, Krstovic, Mugosa
