Live Blog: Turkey vs Romania LIVE: UEFA playoff semifinal for 2026 World Cup

The match in Istanbul has ended

Türkiye defeated Romania 1–0 and awaits the winner of the match between Kosovo and Slovakia.

The incident with the corner flag

Romania Misses Equalizer

For the second time in the match, the team from the Carpathians hits the post.

Turkey goal

53' Ferdi Kadıoğlu defines after a fantastic pass from Arda Güler

The Romanian fans who traveled to Istanbul

The first half of the match has ended

In Istanbul, Türkiye—with a very active Güler—it is a goalless draw against Romania.

The atmosphere in Istanbul is incredible

The UEFA World Cup Semifinal is underway

The ball is rolling at the Tüpraş Stadium in Istanbul, as Türkiye tries to take control against Romania

The UEFA playoffs for the 2026 World Cup are underway, and the clash between Turkey and Romania kicks off the race for the remaining qualification spots.

The match takes place at Tüpraş Stadium as both teams aim to move one step closer to the tournament in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

Who will Turkey or Romania face next?

The winner of this semifinal will face the winner between Slovakia and Kosovo.

The final is scheduled for March 31, where the World Cup spot will be decided.

If the match ends in a draw, it will go to extra time and penalties.

How Turkey and Romania arrive

Turkey, coached by Vincenzo Montella, finished second in a group that included Spain and are considered slight favorites thanks to players like Arda Güler and Kenan Yildiz.

Romania, led by Mircea Lucescu, finished third in their qualifying group but secured this chance through their Nations League performance.

They will rely on key players such as Ianis Hagi and Dennis Man.