Turkey’s head coach Vincenzo Montella hailed his squad as “real men” ahead of Tuesday’s World Cup qualifying playoff final in Kosovo.
Speaking at a pre-match news conference, Montella emphasized the emotional weight of the moment and praised his team’s resilience since he took charge in 2023.
“My players have supported me through a tough period,” said the 51-year-old former AS Roma forward. “They know they carry the hopes of millions of Turks on their backs.”
Under Montella, Turkey reached Euro 2024 and now stand one win away from their first World Cup appearance since 2002.
“This is a final. Everyone feels the pressure,” Montella added. “Most of our players weren’t even born the last time we qualified. This time, we want to make history.”
Kosovo enters the match buoyed by a dramatic 4-3 victory over Slovakia in last week’s semifinal. Turkey captain Hakan Calhanoglu warned of a fierce battle.
“They are strong and have good players,” Calhanoglu said. “It’s not about quality; whoever plays with more heart will win.”
Montella, who has earned widespread admiration in Turkish football, credited the nation’s culture for his seamless integration.
“I eat like a Turk, think like a Turk, act like a Turk,” he said. “This country has made me feel like one of its own.”
A win would send Turkey to the World Cup for the first time in two decades and cement Montella’s legacy in Turkish sport.