Euro 2008: Say hello to Arda Turan
One of the best things about tournaments like Euro 2008 is the emergence of young stars who may not have been known about on a global scale. Whether it's the World Cup or Euro, we always find new youngsters who eventually become the game's next stars.
Enter Arda Turan, the Turkish midfielder whose game-winning goal lifted Turkey to a 2-1 win against Switzerland on Wednesday. He entered the tournament regarded as Turkey's best young prospect and showed why against the Swiss, combining speed, skill and determination in beating the normally stingy Swiss defense for the game-winner.
Currently playing for Galatasaray, the 21-year-old winger just might play himself into a big money transfer if he keeps it up.
What did you think of Turan's performance on Wednesday? Share your thoughts below.
Ives Galarcep is an American soccer columnist for ESPNsoccernet.com and creator of SoccerByIves.net.
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I wouldn't know, haven't had power for two days and PSE&G is displaying no sense of urgency whatsoever despite the high temperatures outside. I'd like to formally thank PSE&G and the town of Nutley for not giving a flying crap about anyone, at all.
Posted by: kpugs | June 12, 2008 at 10:53 AM
Did this kid play against the US in that TOulon tournament. I think he may have been the one who scored that tedic goal
Posted by: Chuck | June 12, 2008 at 11:12 AM
I thought Sahin was their best prospect?
Sad that so many countries have so many prospects and the US has Brian Ching.
Posted by: johnson | June 12, 2008 at 11:20 AM
and another thing - why does every country have at least one bonafide striker, no matter how small or crappy the team, but the US doesn't? so annoying!
Posted by: johnson | June 12, 2008 at 11:24 AM
johnson- "Sad that so many countries have so many prospects and the US has Brian Ching."
dumbest thing ive read all day....
"why does every country have at least one bonafide striker, no matter how small or crappy the team, but the US doesn't? so annoying!"
b/c soccer is the 4th sport in the US... while most other countries, it's their #1 and some their only sport....
Posted by: brett | June 12, 2008 at 11:32 AM
Um, we have Altidore.
Does no one have any faith in Charlie Davies anymore?
Posted by: DeLarge | June 12, 2008 at 12:16 PM
yeah, that Altidore fella, that Adu guy, maybe Kassel, Phillips, a couple others. we have rising star prospects, too, but to us they are old hat. Don't worry, someone looked at the U-20s last year and saw Altidore and said "whoa, where did he come from?" just not anyone in this country.
Posted by: northzax | June 12, 2008 at 12:44 PM
I was really happy for Turkey! I wanted them to score at least one goal but 2 and winning the game? Amazing! Second goal was wonderful too.
Posted by: Simona | June 12, 2008 at 02:06 PM
a brilliant GW goal. I watched this kid a few times playing for Galatasaray, didn't know he was THIS brilliant though. I really hope to see this team advance as I'd like to see this kid and Nihat a little more.
Posted by: Victor | June 12, 2008 at 04:23 PM
Anyone who plays FM 08 or FIFA games knows all about Arda Turan.
Posted by: Joe_in_ND | June 12, 2008 at 07:42 PM
This guy will be famous he is just 21 .
Posted by: Spyker | June 12, 2008 at 09:59 PM
90+3 ARDA GOAL
Posted by: MotherOfAllBombs | June 12, 2008 at 10:17 PM
of course was nearly a mag two weeks ago. sure to end up at inter or something now
Posted by: oba | June 12, 2008 at 10:39 PM
There is a rumor going around the Newcastle United camp that kevin keegan is after Turan.
Posted by: Jay | June 13, 2008 at 12:48 AM