Turkey U21 boss rushed to hospital after falling on touchline during match

Turkey Under-21 manager Egemen Korkmaz collapsed during their Euros qualifying match against Croatia on Tuesday.

With around 34 minutes on the clock, Demir Ege Tiknaz was sent off for the hosts after picking up a second yellow card.

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His manager could be seen expressing his anger towards the referee for his decision and animatedly took his coat off.

However, he then appeared to fall to the ground and spark concern from his players and staff.

An ambulance made its way over to Korkmaz and provided treatment as his players and staff anxiously watched on.

The match was subsequently suspended.

In a statement, the Turkish Football Federation said: “Our U21 National Team Head Coach, Egemen Korkmaz, lost consciousness after slipping and hitting his head on the ground in the 35th minute of today’s UEFA U21 European Championship group qualifying match against Croatia at the Opus Arena in Osijek.

“Korkmaz, who suffered swelling on his head due to the fall, received initial treatment from our medical team on the sidelines.

“He is conscious and has been taken to the hospital by ambulance for further examination. We wish him a speedy recovery.”

Turkish giants Fenerbahce sent their best wishes to Korkmaz as they said: “Get well soon, Egemen Korkmaz.

“We regretfully learned that Egemen Korkmaz, the Head Coach of our U21 National Team, fell ill during the match and was taken to the hospital.

“We extend our get-well wishes to Egemen Korkmaz and hope for his swift recovery.”

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Besiktas followed suit by adding: “We have learned with great sorrow that Egemen Korkmaz, the Head Coach of the U21 National Team, fell ill during the Croatia match and was taken to the hospital.

“We extend our wishes for a speedy recovery to Egemen Korkmaz and hope he regains his health as soon as possible.”

U21 Euros qualifying so far

Korkmaz has been the Turkey U21s boss since 2025 and not lost any of their matches during qualifying.

They are on course to qualify for the first time since 2000.

England are set to enter as the reigning champions after their 3-2 win over Germany in last year’s final.

The Three Lions are currently top of their qualification group on 16 points with four matches to play.

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Korkmaz’s playing and coaching career

A former Turkey international, Korkmaz spent the majority of his playing career in his country’s football league system.

He played for Fenerbahce, with whom he won the Turkish Super Lig, Turkish Cup and Turkish Super Cup.

Korkmaz, a centre-back, also played alongside Liverpool cult hero Dirk Kuyt at the club.

The 43-year-old also played for Besiktas, where he played against Stoke City in the 2011/12 Europa League campaign.

More to follow…