Egemen Korkmaz Announces Turkey U21 Squad for Decisive Euro 2027 Qualifiers
Turkey Under-21 head coach Egemen Korkmaz has revealed a 25-player squad for the upcoming UEFA European Under-21 Championship qualifying matches against Ukraine and Hungary. The two fixtures represent an important stage of the campaign, with the Crescent-Stars aiming to strengthen their position in Group H and keep pressure on leaders Croatia.
Turkey currently occupy second place with 11 points from six matches. Croatia are only two points ahead, meaning the results of the next double-header could have a major impact on the group standings and the qualification race. A strong return from both games would put Turkey in an excellent position heading into the decisive phase of the campaign.
The squad is scheduled to gather in Istanbul on Monday, September 21. Turkey will then face Ukraine at the DVTK Stadium in Miskolc, Hungary, on September 26. Korkmaz’s team will return to home surroundings for the second fixture, hosting Hungary at the Başakşehir Fatih Terim Stadium on October 6.
A balanced squad built around continuity
Korkmaz has selected a group combining players from the Turkish Süper Lig with young footballers developing at clubs abroad. The selection reflects an emphasis on tactical continuity, technical quality and competition for places in every area of the pitch.
The defensive line includes several versatile prospects. Yasin Özcan is among the most notable names in the group, while Mertcan Ayhan and Yusuf Akçiçek add experience gained in demanding European and international environments. The coaching staff will also have options to adjust the defensive structure depending on the opponent’s attacking approach.
Midfield is another area of considerable strength. Yunus Emre Konak, Emirhan İlkhan and İsak Vural are expected to provide energy, mobility and composure in possession. Their ability to resist pressure and progress the ball could prove particularly valuable against Ukraine and Hungary, both of whom are likely to challenge Turkey in the central areas.
In attack, Lille winger Başar Önal stands out as one of the squad’s most dangerous wide players. He will be supported by Trabzonspor forward Ali Habeşoğlu and Alanyaspor’s Arda Usluoğlu, giving Korkmaz several options in the final third. The team also possesses enough flexibility to switch between a traditional centre-forward system and a more fluid front line.
Official Turkey U21 squad
Goalkeepers
– Jankat Yılmaz – Galatasaray
– Deniz Ertaş – Konyaspor
– Serhat Öztaşdelen – Kocaelispor
Defenders
– Ayberk Karapo – Kasımpaşa
– Yusuf Akçiçek – Al-Hilal
– Mertcan Ayhan – Schalke 04
– Hamza Güreler – İstanbul Başakşehir
– Yiğit Efe Demir – Fenerbahçe
– Yasin Özcan – Beşiktaş
– Deniz Emre Ofli – Karlsruher SC
– Berkay Yılmaz – SC Freiburg
Midfielders
– Yunus Emre Konak – Lincoln City / Brentford
– Baran Ali Gezek – Alanyaspor
– Emirhan Boz – Kasımpaşa
– Emirhan İlkhan – Torino
– İsak Vural – Pisa
– İzzet Çelik – Alanyaspor
– Hamza Akman – Eyüpspor
Forwards
– Emirhan Acar – Erzurumspor
– Başar Önal – Lille
– Melih Bostan – Ümraniyespor
– Ali Habeşoğlu – Trabzonspor
– Arda Usluoğlu – Alanyaspor
– Arda Çolak – Iğdır FK
Why the Ukraine match is particularly important
The meeting with Ukraine could set the tone for the entire international window. Turkey’s position near the top of the table leaves little room for dropped points, especially with Croatia currently leading the group. A victory would not only improve the Crescent-Stars’ points total but also provide a psychological boost before the home match against Hungary.
Playing Ukraine in Miskolc rather than on Turkish soil will add another challenge. The team will need to manage the opening stages carefully, avoid unnecessary defensive errors and remain disciplined without possession. Korkmaz may also place emphasis on quick transitions, allowing Turkey’s wide attackers to exploit spaces behind the Ukrainian defence.
Home advantage against Hungary
The second match gives Turkey the benefit of playing at the Başakşehir Fatih Terim Stadium. Home support could be significant, particularly if the team collects a positive result in the first fixture. Hungary are expected to make the match physically demanding, so Turkey’s ability to control the tempo and maintain concentration over 90 minutes will be essential.
The midfield battle could determine the outcome. Players such as Konak, İlkhan and Vural will be required to move the ball quickly while also helping the defence deal with Hungary’s pressure. If Turkey can establish control in the centre of the pitch, the forwards should have more opportunities to attack one-on-one situations and create chances.
Competition for places gives Korkmaz flexibility
The 25-player selection provides Korkmaz with depth across all positions. There are three goalkeepers, a sizeable defensive group and several midfielders capable of operating in different roles. This versatility should allow the coach to respond to injuries, suspensions or tactical changes during the camp.
The squad also underlines Turkey’s growing pool of young players playing outside the country. Several members are gaining experience in European football, while others are competing regularly in the Süper Lig and the domestic professional divisions. That combination can help create a competitive environment within the team.
Qualification ambitions remain in Turkey’s hands
With 11 points already secured, Turkey remain in a strong position in Group H. However, the narrow gap separating them from Croatia means every fixture carries added importance. The upcoming games against Ukraine and Hungary could either consolidate Turkey’s challenge for first place or make the remaining qualification schedule considerably more difficult.
Korkmaz’s main task will be to turn the squad’s individual potential into a consistent collective performance. Defensive organisation, midfield balance and efficiency in front of goal will all be crucial. If Turkey can maintain its current momentum, the team will have a realistic chance of reaching the 2027 European Under-21 Championship.