National Team secures play-off spot by defeating Bulgaria: First goal came from a penalty

The national team, which started the match played in Bursa with high pressure, won a penalty in the 17th minute.

Referee Nicholas Walsh pointed to the penalty spot after Hristiyan Petrov of the Bulgarian defense handled the ball during a free kick taken by Hakan Çalhanoğlu. Captain Hakan Çalhanoğlu, who stepped up to take the penalty, sent the ball and the goalkeeper to opposite corners to make it 1-0 in the 18th minute.

The first half of the match ended with the Crescent-Stars leading 1-0.

Bulgaria came very close to scoring in the 58th minute. Georgi Rusev's powerful shot hit the post and rebounded back into play.

The national team found their second goal in the 83rd minute. From a free kick taken by Hakan Çalhanoğlu from the right wing, Atanas Chernev of the Bulgarian defense sent the ball into his own net with an unfortunate touch, bringing the score to 2-0.

There were no more goals in the remainder of the match, and the National Football Team left the field with a 2-0 victory, securing their place in the play-offs.

SECOND PLACE IN THE GROUP GUARANTEED

Winning their 3rd consecutive match in the group, the National Team reached 12 points and mathematically guaranteed a 2nd place finish in the group, securing their ticket to the World Cup play-offs.

The Bulgarians, on the other hand, remained without a point after 5 matches and stayed in 4th place.

Turkey will face group leaders Spain away on Tuesday, November 18, in their 6th and final match. Bulgaria will host Georgia.

News Source: 12punto