Vincenzo Montella says Turkey enter the World Cup with excitement, hope and a clear sense of the challenge ahead, as the national team prepares for a long-awaited return to the tournament after 24 years. Speaking on the eve of the opening match in Group D, the Turkey coach described the section as extremely balanced, saying all four teams have a realistic chance of reaching the round of 16 and that the answers will come on the pitch.
Turkey begin their campaign against Australia in Vancouver on Sunday at 06:00 Italian time. Montella expects a difficult match, especially because key players Hakan Calhanoglu and Kenan Yildiz are included in the squad but are not yet fully fit after recent injury problems. The coach admitted their physical condition remains uncertain after months of limited playing time. Even so, both players are expected to be important figures if Turkey are to progress.
Montella stressed that no team in the group appears clearly stronger or weaker than the others. In his view, the level is evenly matched across the board, and every side can dream of qualification. He underlined that Turkey must focus on consistency, intensity and discipline if they want to take advantage of this opportunity.
The Italian coach also reflected on the emotional importance of the moment for Turkey, a nation that has waited since the 2002 World Cup in South Korea and Japan to experience the tournament again. He said there is huge enthusiasm inside the camp and growing confidence that the team can deliver a strong performance. At the same time, he acknowledged the responsibility that comes with representing a country where football passion is immense.
Montella said he feels that responsibility even more strongly because he now considers Turkey a second home. He described his connection with the team and the country as deeply personal, noting his full commitment to the national project. For him, the goal is not only to compete, but to make the nation proud.
The coach’s comments come after the United States began the group with a convincing victory over Paraguay, adding further weight to what already looks like a tight and competitive section. Turkey now face an immediate test against Australia, with the fitness of Calcalhanoglu and Yildiz likely to shape the team’s prospects. Montella’s message is clear: Turkey are ambitious, aware of the difficulty ahead, and determined to make the most of a rare World Cup moment.
