How they got there: Finished second behind reigning European Champions Greece. Turkey’s fallability, however, was evident when they beat Moldova and Malta at home, but could only manage shaky draws away. However, in a winner-takes-all against Norway, Turkey squeaked out as 2-1 winners and qualified for Euro 2008.
Coach - Fatih Terim: Widely admired and respected in Turkey, Terim has coached top sides like Galatasaray, Fiorentina and Milan. He's noted as a strict disciplinarian and has no favourites, dropping even big names if he feels the tactics demand it. Terim favours a high energy attacking style, but his teams seem to resist giving the ball away, too.
Star player - Tuncay Sanli: Middlesborough's Mr Versatile has great pace and a good vision, picking up players and running onto balls in the danger area. He can play on the left or the right as a midfielder or up front.
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Tactics: Turkey play either a 4-5-1, with Sukur as a lone target man, or a 4-4-2 system. Nihat Kahveci’s recent form for Villarreal may persuade Terim to push him forwards, either alongside Sukur or Halil Altintop. Emre Belozoglu and Tuncay Sanli provide the midfield support.
Strengths: A team filled with good talent and bags of passion managed by a canny operator.
Weaknesses: They may not have the talent demanded at this level.
Verdict: A first round exit.
If they were a band they would be: The Killers
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