On Tuesday, Türkiye secured their first World Cup appearance in 24 years with a 1-0 away win over Kosovo in the European qualifiers playoff final.

The decisive goal came in the 53rd minute when Kerem Aktürkoğlu converted from close range following a move initiated by Kenan Yıldız and Orkun Kökçü, The Caspian post reports, citing Turkish media.

Türkiye held their advantage despite late pressure from Kosovo, with goalkeeper Uğurcan Çakır making a crucial save in the 87th minute to deny a powerful strike from Asllani.

Kosovo also threatened earlier in the second half, but Türkiye’s defense remained organized, limiting clear chances and protecting the narrow lead.

The match saw several bookings, reflecting its high intensity, as Türkiye managed the game carefully in the closing stages.

With the result, Türkiye secured qualification for the World Cup for the first time since 2002, ending a 24-year absence from football’s biggest stage.