Turkey edge Georgia in thrilling World Cup qualifier
The UEFA World Cup qualifiers in Europe are already producing drama, and one of the standout matches came in Tbilisi where Turkey managed to defeat Georgia 3–2 in a tense and emotional clash. Played at the Boris Paichadze Dinamo Arena in front of more than 44,000 fans, the game had everything—early goals, comebacks, red cards, and last-minute drama.
The match couldn’t have started worse for Georgia. Within just three minutes, Turkey struck first through Mert Müldür, who finished confidently after being set up by Arda Güler. That early setback forced Georgia to chase the game, but instead of finding a quick equalizer, they were punished again. Just before halftime, Kerem Aktürkoğlu doubled Turkey’s lead, finishing off a neat move that showcased the visitors’ sharpness in attack. At halftime, the scoreboard read 0–2, leaving the home crowd stunned.
But Georgia are not a side to give up easily, and their response after the break was far more determined. The pressure began to mount, and eventually, it paid off. In the 63rd minute, Zuriko Davitashvili pulled one back for Georgia, raising hopes of a comeback. The noise inside the stadium lifted, and the game turned into an end-to-end battle.
Also Read:Turkey, however, restored their two-goal cushion soon after. Aktürkoğlu struck again in the 52nd minute, making it 3–1. With that, the visitors seemed to be in control, but football has its twists. The match became complicated for Turkey when Burak Yılmaz was sent off in the 71st minute. Down to ten men, the visitors had to hold their ground against a Georgian side that sensed an opportunity.
The tension grew as Georgia pressed forward. In stoppage time, their star player Khvicha Kvaratskhelia managed to score deep into the 98th minute, cutting the gap to 2–3. That set up a frantic finale, but time eventually ran out for the hosts.
Statistically, Georgia dominated many areas—15 shots compared to Turkey’s 6, more possession at 54%, and six corners against Turkey’s two. Yet efficiency was the difference. Turkey converted their limited chances, while Georgia were left frustrated by missed opportunities and a strong Turkish defensive effort.
For Turkey, this victory marks a strong start to their World Cup qualifying journey, placing them just behind Spain in Group E. Georgia, meanwhile, will feel unlucky. Despite their efforts and the energy from the stands, they walk away empty-handed but will surely take heart from their performance.
The head-to-head history between these two nations continues to tilt in Turkey’s favor, and once again their clinical finishing proved decisive. With qualifying still at an early stage, both sides know there are plenty of games left, but for now, Turkey leave Tbilisi with three vital points, while Georgia are left to regroup and prepare for their next test.
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