After disappointing World Cup loss, Turkey federation president goes on defensive

MESA – The third opponent for the U.S. Men’s National Team in the World Cup, Turkey, is not having an ideal start to its first appearance in 24 years.

Despite entering the tournament with an expectation to advance out of Group D – FanDuel putting Turkey second-favorites to advance – Vincenzo Montella’s side lost 2-0 in its opener against Australia on Friday night, putting the team in an elimination scenario heading into Friday’s clash with Paraguay.

The team returned to its training facility in Mesa after the loss and in addition to practicing, stirred a bit of controversy.

Turkish Football Federation president İbrahim Haciosmanoğlu made headlines on Monday night after responding to former national team coach and Turkish icon Fatih Terim’s match assessment.

The 72-year-old, known in Turkey as “İmparator” (The Emperor), reflected on the team’s performance against Australia. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Terim also urged fans to back Montella’s side despite the setback, acknowledging that there will be time for accountability after the tournament.

That did not sit well with Haciosmanoğlu, who spoke on Monday night before Turkey’s evening training session at the Arizona Athletic Grounds.

“I would’ve liked him to end that speech in a manner befitting an emperor,” Haciosmanoğlu said in Turkish on Terim’s remarks.

“Who are you going to hold accountable? This didn’t suit his demeanor or wisdom. With whom? Are you going to hold the players accountable? Are you going to ask the technical staff? Will you ask the management? Are you going to ask the president?”

Turkey faces Paraguay on Friday in Santa Clara, California, knowing a loss coupled with Australia failing to beat the US would eliminate Montella’s side.

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