Turkey are set to play Wales at the Samsun 19 Mayıs Stadium on Monday in the group stage of the UEFA Euro qualifiers.
Turkey come into this game on the back of a 3-2 win over Latvia in their most recent game. Goals from Galatasaray centre-back Abdulkerim Bardakci, Marseille winger Cengiz Under and Fenerbahce midfielder Irfan Kahveci secured the win for Turkey. Egnatia Rrogozhine midfielder Eduards Emsis and Lechia Gdansk midfielder Kristers Tobers scored the goals for Latvia.
Wales, on the other hand, lost 4-2 to Armenia in their most recent game. Braces from Columbus Crew midfielder Lucas Zelarayan and Borussia Monchengladbach attacker Grant-Leon Ranos sealed the deal for Armenia. Leeds United winger Daniel James and Fulham winger Harry Wilson scored the goals for Wales.
Turkey don't lack talent, and have some talented players to call upon. Midfielder Orkun Kokcu was in the news recently following his €25 million move to Benfica from Feyenoord; the 22-year old is seen as an exciting talent and was linked with Manchester United and Liverpool before his move to Portugal.
They also boast experience in the form of Hakan Calhanoglu, Zeki Celik and Caglar Soyuncu. Soyuncu, in particular, did not enjoy a good season with Leicester City and will hope to get some game time. The 27-year old is expected to join Atletico Madrid this summer.
Wales, on the other hand, have embarked on their post-Gareth Bale era. Bale was often the differentiator for his nation, and his retirement has seen the reliance on players like Brennan Johnson, Daniel James and Harry Wilson increase. Aaron Ramsey might not be the player he once was, but the Nice midfielder is still capable of causing trouble.
A close game is on the cards, with a draw likely.
Prediction: Turkey 1-1 Wales
Tip 1: Result- draw
Tip 2: game to have over / under 2.5 goals- under 2.5 goals
Tip 3: Wales to score first- yes
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