Turkish stars Akturkoglu, Kokcu deliver 2-1 win for Benfica against Crvena Zvezda
Turkish winger Kerem Akturkoglu of Benfica scores his first goal for the club on debut during the Portuguese Primeira Liga match between Benfica and Santa Clara on September 14, 2024 in Lisbon, Portugal. (AA Photo)
The 2024-25 Champions League season has officially begun, with the first week wrapping up as Turkish football stars made their mark. Six matches were played across Tuesday and Wednesday nights, and Turkish nationals Kerem Akturkoglu and Orkun Kokcu starred for Benfica and delivered the win for the team in clash against Serbia’s Crvena Zvezda.
Turkish duo give Benfica a head start
The match, held at Rajko Mitic Stadium in Belgrade, saw Benfica take an early lead in the 9th minute, thanks to a goal by Kerem Akturkoglu. Di Maria sent the ball to Bah, who delivered a cross from the right side of the penalty area to the back post, where Akturkoglu was waiting to strike. The Turkish international found the net, putting Benfica ahead 1-0.
In the 29th minute, Orkun Kokcu, another Turkish national, doubled Benfica’s lead with a brilliant free-kick goal, giving the Portuguese giants a 2-0 lead by halftime.
Late Crvena Zvezda push was not enough
Crvena Zvezda came back stronger in the second half, applying pressure and creating more chances. In the 86th minute, Milson managed to pull one back for the home side, reducing the deficit to 2-1. However, Benfica held on and secured the victory, taking all three points in their Champions League opener.
First Turkish duo to score in a foreign club in Champions League history
Kerem Akturkoglu and Orkun Kokcu made history as the first Turkish players to score for the same foreign team in a Champions League match. For Kerem, it was his third Champions League goal, while Orkun celebrated his first in the prestigious tournament.
