Kerem Aktürkoğlu: 'We will go to the 2026 World Cup and do our job'

Kerem Aktürkoğlu, who plays on the left wing for the Turkish National Football Team, led the national team to a 2-1 victory with the goal he scored in the friendly match against the USA. In an interview with a journalist after the match, he both evaluated the game and shared his views on the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be held in two years.

Starting his remarks by saying, “We started the match a bit cautiously,” Aktürkoğlu stated, “Afterward, we returned to our game plan. The end of the first half was good, but in general, we could not show the quality we wanted. The long season and fatigue had an effect.” While he was pleased with the victory, he noted that they want to boost their self-confidence.

'THE ONLY GOAL...'

Supporting the words of Turkish Football Federation President İbrahim Hacıosmanoğlu, who said, “We will qualify for the World Cup directly,” Kerem Aktürkoğlu said, “Our only goal is to go there. We are not thinking about anything else.”

Stating that scoring a goal is important for him, the star footballer said, “However, what is truly valuable is to contribute to the team even in matches where we cannot score.” He noted that he would do his best regardless of the position he plays in.

The national team will face Mexico on June 11. Kerem Aktürkoğlu said they see this match as “a good rehearsal before the World Cup Qualifiers.” He added, “What is important is to play well on the pitch before the score, to boost self-confidence, and to get ready for the qualifiers.”

News Source: 12punto