Turkiye's Merih Demiral Breaks Record With Fastest Euro Knockout Goal

Turkiye's Merih Demiral scored after just 57 seconds on Tuesday, setting a new record for the fastest goal in the European Championship knockout rounds. The defender capitalised on two lucky deflections from an early corner, sending the ball into the net to give Turkiye an early lead against Austria in the last 16.

Remarkably, there were no goals in the first minute of any match during the first 16 editions of the European Championships (1960-2020). However, Euro 2024 has now seen two goals scored within the opening minute.

Demiral's goal is also notable as it is Turkiye's fastest at major tournaments since Hakan Sukur's 11-second strike against Korea Republic at the 2002 World Cup. This achievement marks another competition record for Turkiye.

Clocked at just 57 seconds, Merih Demiral's opener against Austria is the second-fastest goal in European Championship history.

Clocked at just 57 seconds, Merih Demiral's opener against Austria is the second-fastest goal in European Championship history #AUTTUR pic.twitter.com/3fgaYrUrnf

— Opta Analyst (@OptaAnalyst) July 2, 2024

A youthful Turkiye side made history by becoming the first team in Euros knockout stages to include two teenagers (Kenan Yildiz and Arda Guler) in their starting XI since Hungary did so against Denmark in 1964. This highlights a significant milestone for young players in major tournaments.

Additionally, with an average age of 25 years and 254 days, Turkiye fielded the youngest starting XI in a European Championship knockout stage game since Belgium's team against Wales at Euro 2016 (24 years and 242 days).

The combination of these records underscores Turkiye's dynamic approach and reliance on young talent during Euro 2024. Their performance not only set new benchmarks but also showcased their potential for future tournaments.