Türkiye made an impressive start to its preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a convincing 4-0 victory over North Macedonia in Istanbul on Monday, as four different players got on the scoresheet in a dominant display.
Playing in front of home fans in the Kadıköy district, Türkiye took the lead almost immediately. After Can Uzun rattled the crossbar in the opening minute, Orkun Kökçü broke the deadlock moments later, finishing off Oğuz Aydın's cross to put the hosts ahead.
The pressure continued throughout the first half, and Can Uzun doubled Türkiye's advantage in the 16th minute with a well-placed effort from outside the penalty area that found the net via the post.
Türkiye's Can Uzun celebrates scoring their second goal with Çağlar Soyuncu and Yunus Akgün, in friendly match with North Macedonia, Şükrü Saraçoğlu Stadium, Istanbul, June 1, 2026. (Reuters Photo)
North Macedonia threatened shortly before halftime, but goalkeeper Altay Bayındır reacted well to deny Ezgjan Alioski and preserve the two-goal cushion.
