Türkiye opened their UEFA Nations League A campaign with a 1-0 defeat against France at Kocaeli Stadium. The match marked Türkiye's first appearance in League A of the competition.

The first half ended goalless as Türkiye managed to keep France's attacking players under control. Neither side was able to find a breakthrough before the interval.

France eventually took the lead in the 54th minute through Kylian Mbappé. The French captain found the net to put his side 1-0 ahead before being substituted in the 59th minute for Désiré Doué.

Türkiye pushed for an equalizer during the second half but could not break through the French defense. The situation became more difficult in the 87th minute when goalkeeper Uğurcan Çakır was shown a direct red card following a VAR review.

France held on to secure three points and began its Nations League campaign with a victory. In the group's other match, Belgium defeated Italy 2-0 away from home.

Türkiye will play Italy in their next Group 1 match on September 28, 2026, looking to claim their first points of the campaign.

Match details

Türkiye 0-1 France
Goal: Kylian Mbappé (54')
Red card: Uğurcan Çakır (87')
Venue: Kocaeli Stadium
Competition: UEFA Nations League A, Group 1
Date: September 25, 2026

Category: Sports / National Team

Sources:
Turkish Football Federation (TFF) – Official match report
T24 Spor – Match report