Montella: It is unlikely that Türkiye will meet Italy in the World Cup qualifying play-offs

This morning, November 16th, in the fifth round of Group E of the European Group Stage of the World Cup, the Turkish team defeated Bulgaria 2-0 at home, ensuring the team's qualification to participate in the European World Cup playoffs (Note: With one round left in the group stage, Turkey is 3 points behind Spain, but the goal difference is 14 points, and it is only theoretically possible for them to qualify directly). Turkish coach Montella was interviewed after the game.

About this game

We felt the unparalleled enthusiasm of the home audience, which moved us deeply. First of all, I want to congratulate our players. This game was not easy. We gave Bulgaria several chances in the second half, which was a bit disappointing.

Regarding the injury of our team's player Ka'an in this game

He has a muscle problem, and the specific situation will not be known until tomorrow morning.

About Turkey's next game against Spain

That game will actually not have much impact on the group ranking, but it is of great significance to us, so we have rotated the players in today's game. No matter what lineup we send, the competitive intensity of the next game will be very high.

Regarding Turkey’s possibility of encountering the Italian team in the World Cup qualifying play-offs

As long as nothing unexpected happens, we know that Turkey will be listed as the first team in the World Cup qualifying play-off draw. It is unlikely that we will meet the Italian team. Everyone knows the rules and mechanisms (of the World Cup qualifying competition) better than me. I am not saying this because Italy is my motherland.