Turkey beat Kosovo to reach first World Cup in 24 years
Turkey reach their first World Cup in 24 years as Kerem Akturkoglu's goal gives them a narrow win in their play-off with Kosovo.
FIFA World Cup Qualifying - European Kosovo 0 - 1 Turkey FT Turkey had not qualified for a World Cup since finishing third in the 2002 edition [Getty Images] Turkey reached their first World Cup in 24 years as Kerem Akturkoglu's goal gave them a narrow win in their play-off with Kosovo. Turkey had not qualified for the tournament since finishing third in the 2002 edition but will now face Australia, Paraguay and co-hosts the United States in Group C this summer. In a tense match in Pristina, Kenan Yildiz cut the ball back for Orkun Kokcu whose mis-hit shot was turned in at the back post by Fenerbahce striker Akturkoglu in the 53rd minute.
Opponents Kosovo were hoping to reach their first major tournament since their Fifa and Uefa memberships were accepted in 2015. They hit the bar in the first half when Turkey goalkeeper Ugurcan Cakir tipped Fisnik Asllani's effort onto the woodwork. More to follow.