Semi-finalists in 2008, when only a last-minute Germany goal cost them a place in what would have been a historic final, Turkey returned to the EUROs this year desperate to make up for the disappointment of not qualifying last time around.
Defeats to Croatia and Spain in their first two Group D matches have left Fatih Terim’s side on the brink.
But the tournament’s expanded format this year means all is not lost – a final-day victory over the Czech Republic could still see Turkey progress as one of the best third-place teams.
“I believe in my players,” said a defiant Terim. “This is the last step, the last leg. It will be either ‘yes' or 'no'. We will either say 'enough' or 'keep going'."
EUROs debutant and rising star of the European game Hakan Calhanoglu will likely have a big say on the contest, as will Barcelona midfielder Arda Turan.
It’s all or nothing for Turkey. And to celebrate their first time as official UEFA EURO sponsors, SOCAR brought one fan along for the ride of her life.
Now she, and Turkey, hopes the journey will provide at least on more exciting leg in France.
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