Cenk Tosun's Late Goal Sends Turkey to Knockouts

Cenk Tosun scored a stoppage-time winner as Turkey defeated the Czech Republic in a fiery final group game, securing a last-16 tie against Austria. The Czechs, needing a win to avoid elimination, pushed hard in the closing stages but left gaps in their defense. Cenk Tosun, a former Everton striker, cut inside and drove a shot into the net. The referee further hampered the Czech Republic’s chances when he sent off Antonin Barak midway through the first half for a second yellow card after Barak caught Arda Guler with his studs up.

Officials showed a record 18 cards during and after the match, setting a new European Championship record. Initially, Turkey struggled to break down their opponents and finished the first half without a shot on target. However, six minutes after the break, captain Hakan Calhanoglu struck into the bottom corner, igniting the Turkish fans. West Ham midfielder Tomas Soucek volleyed in from six yards to equalize for the Czechs. Both sides pushed for victory, and Turkey clinched it in the 94th minute, confirming their progress.

Players clashed chaotically at the end, and the referee sent off another Czech player, Tomas Chory. Fans from both sides enjoyed the sunny weather in Hamburg before the match, and the heat may have contributed to the high number of bookings. Officials showed 17 yellow cards before the late sending off, including one to injured Czech striker Patrik Schick, who did not play.

Despite the ill-discipline, the game provided high entertainment, especially after the Czech Republic equalized. Once the final whistle blew, Turkey’s loud and passionate supporters celebrated another memorable win against the Czech Republic at a European Championship, reminiscent of their comeback victory in the 2008 tournament to advance from the group stage.