Inter Milan Midfielder ‘Proud’ Of National Team Impact Ahead Of Crucial World Cup Play-Off Final | OneFootball

Hakan Calhanoglu delivered an emotional and proud reaction after Turkey beat Romania 1-0 to reach the World Cup play-off final, with the Inter Milan midfielder reflecting on a landmark evening for both his country and his personal career.

The victory, sealed at the Tupras Stadium, sends Turkey to Monday’s final in Pristina against Kosovo.

For Calhanoglu, it also marked his 103rd international appearance, making him the third most-capped player in Turkish football history.

Speaking to journalists after the match, with quotes via FCInterNews, he was honest about the pressure the squad had felt.

“After 24 years, everyone wants to participate in the World Cup. We feel the same. We are very happy to have got through this match. One more remains. We hope to prepare well for that one too. The most important thing now is to rest well and prepare as best we can.”

Inter Milan Star Calhanoglu Urges Turkey To Protect Their Joy Ahead Of World Cup Play-Off Final

He was also keen to temper expectations around the Romania performance.

“Everyone expected a 3-0 or 4-0 win, but we knew it would not be that kind of match,” he said.

“Romania are an excellent team, our former coach Lucescu works there and knows every player. We were patient and always had control. The squad is motivated, everyone is positive, and the atmosphere in the dressing room is fantastic. We do not want to lose this happiness, we want to keep living it, for ourselves and for our nation.”

On reaching his personal milestone, Calhanoglu was deeply moved.

“I want to thank everyone who has contributed to my journey in the national team, my coaches and my senior teammates. Very happy and proud to have played my 103rd match. I hope there will be many more. My only objective is to participate in the World Cup as captain. It is the one thing missing from my international experience. I believe it will be a great tournament if we qualify, we also had an excellent European Championship. Let us qualify first, and then we will see.”