World Cup semi-finalists in 2002, the Turkish team has been a model of inconsistency since that time, failing to qualify for the 2006 World Cup. A Euro 2008 qualifying campaign that has featured a 5-0 hammering of Moldova and a memorable 4-1 over arch rivals and reigning European champions Greece in Athens in March, a subsequent draw at home to Norway and a loss to Bosnia have placed Turkey in third place in group C, level on points with Bosnia and Norway and 5 points behind leaders Greece, although Turkey have one game in hand over all those teams.

What remains to be seen is which players will take over the task of leading this proud nation against the bigger teams. Experience such as Tugay, Alpay and Hakan Sukur has left and it is up to a new generation of Turkish players to perform to produce a nation team that can deliver the fans’ high expectations.

With all games must-wins against the teams further down the table, all eyes are on the return match against Greece: Turkey v Greece on 17 October 2007 is without doubt one of the most anticipated ties in world football this year, with so much to play for in terms of Group C and so much in terms of reputation and bragging rights, this is a must-watch for fans of wither side and neutrals too.