An embarrassing early miscue by Turkey gave Portugal a two-goal lead in the 2024 Euro’s group-stage match.
Turkey defender Samet Akaydin scored an own goal after a poor pass to goalie Altay Bayindir.
The Fox telecast switched camera angles before the errant pass, but a replay showed Akaydin’s kick glide past Bayindir’s right before the goalie scrambled back toward the net in an attempt to save the ball from crossing the line.
Saturday’s match is pivotal in Group F. Portugal and Turkey received three points in their first games of the European Championship, and with a win, either squad will punch its ticket to the Round of 16.
Through 55 minutes, that appears to be Portugal. The national team added a third goal, this time by midfielder Bruno Fernandes, off an assist from all-time great forward Christian Ronaldo on a breakaway early in the second half to increase its lead.
Portugal won the 2016 Euro but bowed out in the Round of 16 in 2021. Following Saturday’s match, Portugal plays Georgia on Wednesday in its Group F finale.
