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Stefan Kuntz on his debut in Istanbul
Photo: MURAD SEZER / REUTERS
The Turkish media had hoped for more: after the draw on Stefan Kuntz's debut as coach of the national soccer team, they mostly reacted with disappointment.
"The German vaccine did not work," wrote Fanatik after the 1-1 (1: 1) against Norway in the World Cup qualification.
Hürriyet said: »We missed a great opportunity.« For Aksam Spor all dreams of the World Cup have already »burst«.
The 58-year-old Kuntz, who had twice become European champion with the German U21 national team, took over the Turkish selection almost three weeks ago.
With twelve points, Turkey is only third in qualification group G behind the Netherlands (16) and Norway (14).
Kerem Aktürkoğlu (6th minute) gave Turkey an early lead, but the Scandinavians, who had to do without Dortmund star striker Erling Haaland, equalized with Kristian Thorstvedt (41st).
The next game for Kuntz and Turkey is on Monday (8.45 p.m.) in Latvia.
In addition, games against Gibraltar and Montenegro are still waiting in November.
Turkey must hope for at least one slip from Norway in order to reach the play-offs for qualification for the tournament in Qatar in autumn 2022 as runners-up in the group.
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