In a quest for qualification and a historic triumph, the Turkish women’s badminton national team sets its sights on the Europe Teams Championship Finals.

Scheduled to take place in Sofia, Bulgaria, from tomorrow to Sunday, the team is eager to make a mark on the international stage.

Grouped alongside Ukraine and Greenland, the Turkish players anticipate fierce competition.

Success in these group matches is pivotal, as it will determine their clash with the winner of the group consisting of Bulgaria, Latvia and Ireland.

The ultimate goal is to secure a coveted spot in the finals and bring home Türkiye’s first medal in the senior category of this prestigious championship.

Leading the national team, Head Coach Barış Boyar, alongside star athletes Özge Bayrak, Nazlıcan Inci and Zehra Erdem, shared insights into their preparations with Anadolu Agency (AA) ahead of the qualifiers.

Boyar expressed satisfaction with the training camp in Ankara, saying, “Our players are highly motivated. Our primary aim is to advance from the groups in the European Championships and reach the finals.”

He emphasized the historical significance of aiming for a team medal, following the individual successes of Özge Bayrak and Neslihan Yiğit Arın in previous European Championships.

“We have been working towards achieving a team medal as well. Hopefully, we succeed and if we win, it will be our first team medal,” he said.

Highlighting the team’s strong foundation, Boyar remarked, “Our potential in badminton is very high. There’s a great synergy with the new management. Our young athletes have ambitious goals. We aim to combine the success of the younger age groups with the seniors. We have succeeded with women’s teams in the under-17 and under-19 categories. Our goal is to increase the number of Olympic athletes and represent our country with more athletes in the Olympics. Winning a medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics may seem challenging at the moment. Our goal is to advance from the groups, as the Olympics is truly a massive process. We continue to work towards this, especially scouting young talent for Olympic representation.”

Confidence soaring

Özge Bayrak, who shared a joint training camp with the men’s national team, expressed confidence in the team’s ability to emerge as group leaders. “Our current focus is on topping the group ahead of the European Championship Finals. We have two challenging matches ahead, against Ukraine and Bulgaria. We aim to win both and qualify for the finals.”

As one of the two athletes who secured individual medals for Türkiye in the previous European Championships, Bayrak conveyed her determination: “Every team championship we attend, we genuinely aim to win a medal. That’s our goal. Hopefully, this time, we break new ground and return to our country with a medal.”

Nazlıcan İnci, discussing the team’s rigorous preparation with double training sessions daily, expressed optimism about their chances of advancing from the group.

“We believe we will qualify from the group, and Bulgaria will also emerge from the other group. Our potential match against Bulgaria will be tough, but I believe we can win. We are eager to reach the finals. Compared to previous years, I see the team as stronger. We’ll strive for success with a good draw,” she said.

Assessing her individual performance, Nazlıcan stated, “Unfortunately, in 2022, we couldn’t participate in any tournaments. In 2023, I feel that I have improved my performance in every tournament. I’ve given my all in preparation and I believe I’ll reflect that in the matches. Qualifying for the Olympics in women’s doubles is a bit challenging due to the reduction in quota numbers worldwide. We will also push ourselves and aim to achieve a first there.”

Zehra Erdem, highlighting the team’s readiness, stated, “We are heading to the qualifiers in excellent shape as a team. We have group matches ahead against Greenland and Ukraine. If we defeat them, we will face the winner of the other group in the finals. We must win that match too. We need to qualify for the European Championship Finals in Poland. I believe we are a very strong team, and in Poland, we will achieve our goal of winning our first medal. We are undergoing rigorous preparation camps during this process. There’s mutual trust within the team. I have confidence that we will achieve good results. Both our singles and doubles players are progressing strongly. We will bring our past experiences to the field and deliver a solid performance.”

Source: Daily Sabah

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In a remarkable journey that began in Kayseri, 11-year-old Ecrin Bütün, who lost the use of her legs after surgery at the age of 2, has transformed into a swimming sensation.

Over the past two years, she has not only conquered the waters but also clinched an impressive tally of 16 gold and five silver medals in various competitions.

Now, with her sights set on the national team, Bütün is a true inspiration in the face of adversity.

Bütün, a fifth-grade student at Yahya Kemal Beyatlı Middle School, faced the loss of her ability to walk following surgery to remove a spinal cord tumor detected when she was just 2 years old.

Undeterred by her physical challenge, Bütün discovered a new lease on life two years ago when she met swimming coach Safiye Kayabal during talent screening tests conducted by the Youth and Sports Provincial Directorate.

Learning to swim in the Olympic pool under her coach’s guidance, Bütün found joy in the sport and began preparing for competitions.

Her baptism by fire occurred six months into her swimming journey at the 2019 Physically Disabled Türkiye Championship held in Konya on Dec. 6-7.

In this debut, Bütün scooped up an impressive four gold medals in the 200-meter freestyle and 150-meter individual medley categories for both open-age and 8-11 age groups.

The same championship saw Bütün secure two silver medals in the 100-meter breaststroke and freestyle events in the open age category, while in the 8-11 age group, she claimed two more gold medals.

Her prowess extended to the 50-meter freestyle, where she secured the top spot in the 8-11 age category.

This year, at the Paralympic Swimming Regional Championship held in Mersin from Oct. 19-20, Bütün continued her golden streak by winning an impressive six gold medals in the 200-meter freestyle, 150-meter individual medley and 100-meter breaststroke across both open age and 8-11 age categories.

Additionally, she clinched three silver medals in the 50-meter and 100-meter freestyle and 50-meter backstroke in the open age category.

In the 8-11 age group, Bütün added three more gold medals to her collection.

With this outstanding performance, Bütün has earned the right to participate in the para-swimming national team selections scheduled for Dec. 12-14 in Ankara.

In an interview with Anadolu Agency (AA), Bütün expressed her love for swimming, acknowledging the positive impact the sport has had on her life.

She credited coach Safiye Kayabal for introducing her to the world of swimming and shared her excitement about the upcoming national team selections, stating her ultimate goal is to represent Türkiye on the international stage proudly.

Kayabal, emphasizing Bütün’s versatility in mastering all swimming styles, commended her positive attitude and noted that swimming is a sport for everyone.

She expressed her ambition to raise the Turkish flag alongside Bütün at European competitions in the future.

Bütün’s father, Mevlüt Bütün, emphasized the family’s unwavering support for their daughter, highlighting the challenges they’ve overcome together.

He expressed gratitude for the continuous treatment and shared the family’s determination to support his daughter in her journey, pledging to continue their unwavering support.

Source: Daily Sabah

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Turkish Motorcycle Federation (TMF) national teams captain, Kenan Sofuoğlu, is eyeing championship glory from his squad of talented riders in the upcoming season.

Reflecting on the recently concluded season, Sofuoğlu highlighted Toprak Razgatlıoğlu’s transition from the Pata Yamaha Prometeon team to the “Rokit BMW” team.

Optimistic about BMW’s quest for their first World Championship, Sofuoğlu expressed confidence that Razgatlıoğlu would swiftly adapt and contend for the 2024 championship.

With a two-year deal in place, Sofuoğlu acknowledged the challenges of the initial season but remained steadfast in his belief that they would propel BMW to its inaugural world championship in the second season.

Turning his attention to his younger brother Bahattin Sofuoğlu, who competed in the World Supersport Championship for the first time this season, Kenan Sofuoğlu noted the significance of the young rider’s several podium finishes and a victory.

He emphasized the promising nature of a rookie securing victories in their debut season, asserting that Bahattin Sofuoğlu’s potential was evident for all to see.

In a narrative of resilience, Sofuoğlu detailed the harrowing season for national motorcycle racer Can Öncü.

Overcoming a severe injury that nearly cost him his left arm, Can Öncü defied the odds, returning to the podium in Spain with only 10% functionality in his arm.

Sofuoğlu shared that Can Öncü had recently undergone major surgery in the U.K., expressing optimism that the arm, now at 70-80% functionality, would enable him to continue his career.

While acknowledging the potential challenges ahead, Sofuoğlu expressed the team’s anticipation for Can Öncü to aim for a world championship in the coming year.

Shifting the focus to another national talent, Deniz Öncü, who completed a four-year Moto3 career, Sofuoğlu highlighted the numerous victories and podium appearances.

Although Moto3 saw success, Sofuoğlu believes Deniz’s shot at a world championship lies in Moto2.

Securing a deal with the powerhouse Red Bull KTM team, Sofuoğlu conveyed high expectations for Deniz, indicating that successful navigation through Moto2 could position him as a representative in MotoGP.

As the current season wraps up, Sofuoğlu revealed a brief hiatus of approximately 1.5 months before gearing up for preparations for the 2024 season with his team.

Sharing his aspirations, Sofuoğlu expressed the natural expectation for championship aspirations from each of his athletes across different categories.

Source: Daily Sabah

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Emre Karaca claimed the pinnacle of the podium, securing a gold medal, while Güler Deniz Topuz clinched second place, proudly bringing medals back to Türkiye from the World Kickboxing Championship.

Held in the picturesque city of Albufeira, Portugal, from Nov. 17-26, the championship witnessed the participation of nearly 2,000 athletes from 70 countries.

In the “full contact” category, 33-year-old Emre Karaca emerged victorious in the 57 kg. Division, while 23-year-old Güler Deniz Topuz secured a commendable second place in the 56 kg. category.

Basking in the glory of their achievements, the national athletes reveled in the joy of hoisting the Turkish flag, adorned with gold and silver medals, on the podium.

In an exclusive interview with Anadolu Agency (AA), World champion Emre Karaca expressed the pride he felt playing the Turkish national anthem in foreign lands.

Karaca spoke passionately about his journey, saying: “I’ve been fighting in the ring for years and achieving a world championship hadn’t come my way. In 2022, I became the European champion, followed by the world championship in 2023. When national sentiments come into play, the match becomes entirely different. There, no one cheers with names; instead, it’s all about ‘Türkiye’ or ‘Red and White.'”

Karaca highlighted the difficulty of attaining a medal, saying: “We went there as the Turkish national team, and we had 10 world champions among us. This is the pinnacle: European and world championships. Fortunately, we have achieved it.”

Güler Deniz Topuz, the world runner-up, shared insights into their rigorous preparations for the championship.

Despite sustaining an injury before the final match, Topuz expressed satisfaction in bringing pride to her family, country and coaches by securing a silver medal.

While acknowledging the challenge due to an injury in the final, Topuz remarked: “We were hopeful of bringing home the gold medal, but I am proud to have won a medal, making my family, country and coaches proud. The silver medal I brought to my country is a source of great pride.”

Optimistic about the silver medal’s significance for upcoming tournaments, Topuz emphasized her perpetual pursuit of gold.

She spoke of the dedication and support she received from her coaches, underscoring the pride of standing on the podium in Portugal and relishing the joy of team success.

In a heartfelt expression of gratitude, Topuz thanked the federation, the club president and the mayor of Darıca for their unwavering support throughout the journey.

Source: Daily Sabah

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In a remarkable journey through the competitive landscape of women’s football, Türkiye’s national team has achieved a significant milestone by ascending from the C League to the B League in the Nations League.

Leading the success are two standout players: Yağmur Uraz, the leading scorer from Fenerbahçe and Selda Akgöz, the goalkeeper from Ankara Fomget.

Akgöz maintained a perfect record in the C Group, contributing to the Crescent-Stars’ leadership with six wins, 16 goals scored and none conceded.

The strategic progression from the C League to the B League underlines the meticulous planning and step-by-step approach implemented since the arrival of Coach Necla Güngör Kırağası and her team.

Sacrifices made by the team and players have fostered a tight-knit family atmosphere, a sentiment that resonates on the field.

Reflecting on their early aspirations, Uraz reminisced about the joy of playing in the neighborhood at 12.

Today, the thrill extends to performing in large stadiums and playing for club and national teams before an enthusiastic fanbase.

The evolution of women’s football has opened doors for aspiring young talents, encouraging them to dream beyond boundaries.

The journey has been transformative for Akgöz, who hails from humble beginnings.

She envisions leaving a legacy for younger generations, inspiring them to embrace football with their families.

The duo aims to progress collectively, underscoring the importance of unity in growth.

The impact of Türkiye’s national team mirrors that of the volleyball national team, affectionately known as the “Sultans of the Net.”

Akgöz shared insights into the growing support, with individual sponsorships and an expanding fan base.

The duo is committed to providing joy to their audience, with Akgöz emphasizing her unique perspective from the rear, ensuring an intimate connection with the game.

As 2023 concludes, the focus shifts to the challenges in the B League.

Yağmur expressed anticipation about the opponents they will face, emphasizing a gradual and dedicated approach to pushing their limits and achieving new milestones.

Beyond the national team’s success, the discussion extends to the broader landscape of women’s football.

The two stars stressed the importance of major clubs investing in grassroots development, ensuring that talent is nurtured across the country, not limited to metropolitan areas.

They actively guide aspiring players, addressing the need for accessible platforms in both eastern and western regions.

Breaking barriers

Beyond the field, both athletes challenge societal stereotypes.

Akgöz acknowledged the persistent expectation for women to be the caretaker in the family, yet she defied this by managing her responsibilities as a financial provider.

Pursuing education and career aspirations showcases a shift in perceptions around women in football.

Uraz and Akgöz expressed aspirations beyond their playing careers.

Uraz, at 33, envisions a future in coaching, combining her experience with a master’s degree in movement and exercise science.

Akgöz, at 30, however, intends to continue playing until 35, contemplating a transition to coaching and nurturing the next generation.

Reflecting on their football idols, Yağmur identifies Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Pavel Nedved, Mesut Özil and now Erling Haaland as sources of inspiration.

Their goal celebrations are reminiscent of legendary figures like Didier Drogba and Fernando Muslera, serving as a source of pride for aspiring players.

Evolution

The challenges encountered in the early days of women’s football, such as the absence of personalized jerseys and limited resources, have transformed into a scenario where numerous options are available, underscoring the advancements in the women’s game.

Anticipating a future Arda Güler in women’s football, the two stars confidently projected sending a sister abroad within the next few years, emphasizing the continued growth and recognition of Turkish women’s football on the global stage.

Source: Daily Sabah

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The grandeur of Turkish traditional wrestling took center stage as the Türkiye Traditional Wrestling Federation (TGGF) celebrated the culmination of the 2023 CW Enerji Türkiye Oil Wrestling League with a prestigious awards ceremony.

The event, held at Eresin Topkapı Hotel, saw the presence of distinguished figures, including Bilal Erdoğan, president of the World Ethnosport Confederation; İbrahim Türkiş, president of TGGF; Tarık Sarvan, chair of the board of CW Enerji, along with mayors from various cities and districts participating in the league.

In a compelling address at the ceremony, Bilal Erdoğan emphasized the pivotal role of increasing the number of traditional sports federations in paving the way for success in various disciplines.

As the head of the Ethnosport Confederation, Erdoğan highlighted their global efforts to popularize traditional sports, acknowledging the importance of strengthening institutional structures.

Reflecting on Türkiye’s traditional sports, namely wrestling, equestrianism and marksmanship, Erdoğan advocated for consolidating each under a dedicated federation, envisioning accelerated growth for traditional archery, javelin throwing and oil wrestling.

He credited the support received from government officials, particularly his father, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, for the successful establishment of four federations catering to all traditional sports, fostering significant momentum in these disciplines.

Bilal Erdoğan, underscoring the prominence of oil wrestling in Türkiye’s sports landscape, commended the advancements in both institutionalization and innovative measures taken within the sport.

He expressed optimism for the rapid expansion of oil wrestling, foreseeing wrestlers achieving more significant rewards with less physical strain.

Bilal Erdoğan assured continued support from figures like Tarık Sarvan, affirming that demands for broadcasting rights and sponsorships would persist.

Acknowledging the unique challenges of oil wrestling, Erdoğan concluded by emphasizing the ongoing efforts to implement more refined regulations each year, aspiring to elevate the viewing experience, attract increased sponsorship and cultivate a robust grassroots foundation for the sport.

TGGF President İbrahim Türkiş took the stage to share the ardent commitment invested in advancing oil wrestling to new heights.

Remarking on his tenure of 1.5 years, Türkiş conveyed the honor of undertaking the responsibility for the cherished sport of oil wrestling.

He spoke of tireless efforts made around the clock to enhance the sport, taking into account the desires of wrestling enthusiasts.

Engaging with numerous stakeholders, Türkiş underscored the inevitability of establishing the league after comprehensive evaluations.

Türkiş acknowledged the imperfection inherent in any venture but stressed the importance of taking action to avoid stagnation.

Looking ahead, he promised an even more splendid spectacle for the entire nation in the coming year.

Touching upon recent challenges, Türkiş mentioned a deviation from their initial plans due to the unfortunate events in Palestine.

Despite initially planning a different event, the prevailing circumstances led to a modified program that maintained a degree of acceptability.

Türkiş expressed hope for witnessing the end of oppression and violence in the near future.

Tarık Sarvan also shared his thoughts, expressing gratitude for the remarkable turnout after embarking on the positive journey a year ago.

He credited Türkiş for the success, acknowledging the collective efforts that brought everyone together.

The culmination of the event featured the presentation of trophies and plaques, with Orhan Okulu, the season’s champion, receiving the prestigious gold belt from Bilal Erdoğan.

The festivities concluded with a group photo capturing the essence of the memorable occasion.

Source: Daily Sabah

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Fifteen-year-old Turkish swimmer Turgut Aslan Yaraman is gearing up to tackle the rare “Escobar Syndrome” as he sets his sights on a medal at the 2024 Paris Paralympic Games.

Born with difficulty in walking due to a congenital issue in his left leg, Yaraman dove into the world of swimming at the age of 5 under the guidance of doctors.

The diagnosis of “Escobar Syndrome” seemed daunting, but swimming proved to be a beacon of relief for Yaraman, easing the challenges in his leg and contributing positively to his ability to walk.

Catching the attention of his coach with determination and remarkable achievements, Yaraman secured a spot in the Paralympic national team at the age of 10.

Over about five years, the athlete clinched numerous victories in national competitions. In the recent final leg of the Para Swimming World Series held in Egypt, he proudly claimed gold, silver and bronze medals across different categories.

As Yaraman prepares for the Paralympic European Swimming Championships in Portugal, his ultimate dream is to clinch the gold medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics, a well-deserved achievement for earning his spot.

Champion by design, swimmer by destiny

In an exclusive interview with Anadolu Agency (AA), Turgut Aslan Yaraman revealed that a decade ago, he embarked on the swimming journey not to become a champion but to regain his health.

Initially not envisioning himself as a national athlete, Yaraman shared: “After a while, my coach said, ‘I will make you a champion.’ I believed in him, my family believed, and today, here I am. I worked hard and attended training sessions morning and night and that’s how I found success.”

The national swimmer emphasized how sports transformed his social life, making him more active and friendly.

Reflecting on his international success in the Para Swimming World Series this year, Yaraman said: “If I go somewhere, I go to succeed. Many around me were surprised that I became a world champion, but I knew I would be a champion. It wasn’t a surprise for me.”

Underscoring his unwavering commitment to continuous hard work, Yaraman outlined his initial goal of winning the European championship, followed by the 2024 Paris Paralympic Games.

“I believe I will become an Olympic champion. My sole focus is on becoming an Olympic champion. I will work morning and night. A challenging journey awaits us. I’m a bit excited, but it’s a long process. Nothing comes easy – every athlete dreams of wearing the national jersey and playing the national anthem. I am proud to have done that, and hopefully, more will come,” he said.

Coach’s vision

Coach Ali Şahin emphasized Yaraman’s disciplined approach as the key factor propelling the national swimmer’s progress. “For about 10 years, he has consistently worked with discipline and thankfully, today we have started to reap the rewards.”

Expressing high expectations for Yaraman’s future achievements, Şahin recalled, “We had already seen the light in Aslan. When I told him, ‘One day, you will be the champion of Europe, the world and the Olympics,’ he was still very young and couldn’t comprehend. But we truly saw the light in him. In the swimming championships we attended, especially when he competed alongside non-disabled children, he radiated that light to us.”

Source: Daily Sabah

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Renowned Turkish arm wrestling virtuoso Kenan Eroğlu, a maestro with an impressive collection of 126 medals, has etched his legacy not just as a formidable athlete but as a dedicated coach shaping the futures of aspiring champions.

Eroğlu’s journey, which began 27 years ago in the fitness center of Kocaeli, has transcended the realms of personal triumph to become a narrative of inspiration.

At 47, Eroğlu stands as a testament to the adage that age is just a number.

Emerging from the fitness center fraternity on the advice of arm wrestling enthusiasts and friends, he ascended to the pinnacle of success, securing an astounding 126 medals, including 30 on the international stage, while proudly donning the national team colors.

Beyond his individual exploits, Eroğlu champions the cause of para-arm wrestling as a coach, extending his influence to Kocaeli Metropolitan Municipality Kağıtspor, where he molds the next generation of arm wrestling prodigies.

His commitment is not merely confined to the arena but extends to a 4-square-meter (43-square-foot) room in his house, transformed into a mini gym, propelling him to the World Championship in 2016.

In a conversation with Anadolu Agency (AA), Eroğlu delved into the genesis of his journey, recounting the pivotal role played by arm wrestling athletes in the fitness center.

A runner-up in his inaugural national competition, Eroğlu redirected his focus towards arm wrestling, solidifying his position with an impactful debut on the international stage.

Eroğlu’s philosophy transcends the conventional boundaries of sports.

He perceives arm wrestling not just as a display of physical prowess but as a transformative journey that instills self-confidence in athletes.

His words resonate: “Arm wrestling is a power sport; it gives self-confidence to the athletes of this branch.”

This conviction propels Eroğlu to set monumental goals, including the aspiration of becoming a national team athlete.

However, his impact extends far beyond medals and titles.

Eroğlu’s ethical compass steers him toward touching lives in a moral dimension, prioritizing character over achievements.

For him, the true measure of success lies not only in athletic prowess but in becoming a moral compass for youth.

“A moral person ensures that the young people who follow him are also moral. This is more important than his world, European and international success,” he said.

As he ventured into international competitions, Eroğlu’s focus transcended personal glory.

It converged on nurturing the morale and motivation of his young charges.

Despite his age, he remains a formidable force on the podium, driven not by personal accolades but by the collective success of his athletes.

Closing the year with an impressive tally of nine national and international medals, Eroğlu remains steadfast in his pursuit of excellence.

The Turkish Championship in February, followed by the European Championship in Slovakia, beckons, with the pinnacle being the World Championship in Ghana.

Eroğlu’s strategic planning includes recruiting fresh talent from Kağıtspor, highlighting his commitment to raising the bar each passing year.

Source: Daily Sabah

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In the upcoming clash on Wednesday, Turkish Süper Lig reigning champions Galatasaray will host a troubled Manchester United side in the UEFA Champions League Group A reverse leg encounter.

The spotlight is on the Lions’ historical dominance on the pitch as they prepare to vanquish the Red Devils once and for all.

Boasting the title of Türkiye’s most successful football team in international competitions, the Istanbulites have competed in European cups a staggering 312 times.

With victories in the UEFA Cup and UEFA Super Cup, their track record includes 112 wins, 83 draws and 117 losses across all competitions.

Notably, Galatasaray have crossed paths with English clubs 22 times in European cups, facing off against the likes of West Bromwich Albion, Manchester United, Chelsea, Leeds United, Arsenal and Liverpool.

In these encounters, however, the Lions have secured four wins and eight draws and succumbed to 10 slaughters.

The imminent clash against Manchester United holds significance as it marks Galatasaray’s most-played matches against English teams.

Out of the seven meetings between the two teams, all in the Champions League, they have shared victories twice, while three matches ended in a draw.

Galatasaray managed to net seven goals in these bouts, while their English counterparts scored 10.

Galatasaray’s home advantage against Manchester United has been noteworthy, remaining undefeated in three encounters.

The historical matchups between the two teams include four games in England and three in Istanbul, where Galatasaray impressively kept a clean sheet.

One of the unforgettable encounters dates back to the 1993–1994 season when the Lions locked horns with the Red Devils in the UEFA Champions League second qualifying round.

Despite being considered the underdogs, Galatasaray secured a 3-3 draw in the first match and advanced by completing the rematch with a 0-0 score, causing a major upset in European football.

The head-to-head record of Galatasaray against Manchester United in UEFA competitions is as follows:

Oct.20, 1993: Champions League: Manchester United 3-3 Galatasaray

Nov. 3, 1993: Champions League: Galatasaray 0-0 Manchester United

Sept. 28, 1994: Champions League: Galatasaray 0-0 Manchester United

Dec. 7, 1994: Champions League: Manchester United 4-0 Galatasaray

Sept. 19, 2012: Champions League: Manchester United 1-0 Galatasaray

Nov. 20, 2012: Champions League: Galatasaray 1-0 Manchester United

Oct. 3, 2023: Champions League: Manchester United 2-3 Galatasaray

At Old Trafford, the Lions stunned everyone by rallying from behind, turning a 2-1 deficit into a remarkable 3-2 victory.

Notably, Manchester United have struggled in away matches against Turkish teams, securing only three wins in nine matches, accompanied by two draws and four losses.

They managed to score eight goals but conceded eight as well.

As the stage is set for the upcoming clash, Galatasaray face a setback with Colombian defender Davinson Sanchez, who was diagnosed with a second-degree strain in the upper left back muscle.

Despite this, the team’s focus remains on securing a victory in front of their home crowd.

With Group A leaders Bayern Munich having already punched their ticket into the knockout stages, the anticipation is high as Galatasaray aim to move up to second place by overcoming Manchester United’s challenge.

In preparation for the clash, Manchester United announced the absence of several key players due to injuries.

Marcus Rashford, Mason Mount, Lisandro Martinez, Tyrell Malacia, Jonny Evans, Christian Eriksen and Casemiro will be sidelined, posing a challenge for the English giants.

Galatasaray’s focus is on key players like Kaan Ayhan, Lucas Torreira, Tanguy Ndombele, Wilfried Zaha and the on-fire Mauro Icardi, with expectations of a strong performance at RAMS Park against Manchester United.

The Lions are poised to secure their European journey with a triumph in tomorrow’s match.

Should they outclass Manchester United in front of their devoted fans, a likely outcome, they will elevate their points to seven, establishing a commanding four-point lead over the Red Devils before the decisive last week.

In the unlikely event of an unfavorable result, Galatasaray will gracefully transition to the UEFA Europa League, ensuring their continental quest continues.

Source: Daily Sabah

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In a tale that blends tradition, skill and familial bonds, Ali Fuat Kurtuluş Kılıç, a seasoned athlete with the national mounted archery team, is forging a path alongside his 11-year-old prodigy son, Muhammet Cengiz, as they dream to emerge as the “best” on the global stage of mounted archery.

Kılıç, whose equestrian roots trace back to his Caucasus immigrant grandfathers, unveiled the family’s passion for this unique sport.

“I inherited this love for equestrian sports from my ancestors,” Kılıç said, emphasizing the deep cultural ties that bind them to the ancient practice.

The journey into mounted archery began for Kılıç in 2010, at a time when the sport was still in its infancy in Türkiye.

What started as a cultural event transformed into an officially recognized sport in 2014, thanks to the efforts of the Traditional Equestrian Sports Federation.

Fast forward to 2021, Kılıç and his son proudly represent the Performance Equestrian Archery and Equestrian Club, chaired by Zübeyir Bekiroğlu.

Breaking new ground, Kılıç highlighted a significant milestone from the previous year when the federation inked protocols with the World Mounted Archery Federation (WHAF) and the International Mounted Archery Association (IHAA).

“Mounted archery has officially gained an international dimension,” he said.

Their triumph on the European stage, where they clinched gold as a team, marked a historic moment for Turkish mounted archery.

Kılıç attributed this success to the growth and recognition of the sport, expressing optimism for its potential inclusion in the Olympics.

“For us, the Olympics is not a dream. We are working for this,” he added.

As Kılıç delved into the evolving landscape of mounted archery, he shed light on the sport’s rapid global development.

Reflecting on the unique pride of engaging in mounted archery as a father-son duo, he drew parallels to other athletic families, notably mentioning the father of Olympic archer Mete Gazoz.

Looking ahead, Kılıç outlined the professional categories within mounted archery, emphasizing the rigorous selection process for the national team based on competition successes.

He revealed that four athletes would soon represent Türkiye in the upcoming World Cup in Saudi Arabia, showcasing the sport’s expanding international footprint.

Beyond the competition, Kılıç underscored the cultural significance they bring to mounted archery, preserving a 5,000-year-old history through traditional attire, saddles, and headgear for both riders and horses.

Their commitment extends to keeping the spiritual culture alive, setting them apart in competitions like the European Championships.

In an inspiring twist, Kılıç spoke proudly of his son, Muhammet Cengiz, the 11-year-old Turkish horseback archery champion.

Having been groomed in the saddle since the tender age of three, Cengiz competes and excels in the sport.

His journey from junior champion in 2022 to the star category in 2023 speaks volumes about his skill and determination.

In Cengiz’s own words, “When I race with my father, all my excitement goes away; I feel like I’m flying with the horse.”

His aspirations reach new heights, mirroring the dreams of Olympic medalist Mete Gazoz.

“I want to represent Türkiye in Europe and return with a medal,” Cengiz added.

Source: Daily Sabah

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