Euro 2024: Bullish Austria aims to beat Turkey to reach quarterfinals for first time
Associated PressLEIPZIG, Germany — Austria is bidding to go farther than it ever has at a European Championship when it takes on Turkey in the round of 16. Turkey qualified for the knockout stage as runner-up in Group F. — Austria recovered from an opening 1-0 loss to France by beating Poland 3-1 and then the Netherlands 3-2 to top Group D. — Calhanoglu and defender Samet Akaydin are suspended for Turkey because of an accumulation of yellow cards, while 10 of its players – including Arda Guler and Kenan Yildiz – are in danger of missing the next match if booked. — Austria has never been involved in a competitive penalty shootout, while Turkey defeated Croatia 4-2 in a shootout in the Euro 2008 quarterfinals. — Austria’s Marcel Sabitzer and Turkey’s Salih Ozcan are Borussia Dortmund teammates, while Turkey defender Mert Muldur was born in Vienna. Team news — Turkey had concerns about Real Madrid star Arda Guler during the group stage, but the 19-year-old attacking midfielder played from the start in the final group game and is fit.