The Swiss national team conceded points for the first time in the current World Cup qualifiers. In the away match against Turkey in Sinop, a late goal conceded resulted in a 1-1 draw.
18.04.2026, 20:10
18.04.2026, 20:11
SDA
After the 3:1 home win in the direct duel last Tuesday in Zurich, the Swiss struggled on the Turkish Black Sea coast. The first half, played in front of around 10,000 spectators, was devoid of any noteworthy goal-scene on either side and was characterized by a lot of patchwork in midfield.
Crnogorcevic scores after a long dry spell
Shortly after the break, however, the Swiss were able to celebrate. Almost out of nowhere, Ana-Maria Crnogorcevic moved into the middle and shot from the edge of the penalty area. The ball found its way into the net via the inside of the post. It was a remarkable moment for the record-breaking international: she ended a long drought with her 75th goal for the national team. Crnogorcevic's last goal for the national team came in a 3-0 win over Azerbaijan on July 16, 2024.
However, the lead did not last until the final whistle. In the 79th minute, Selen Altunkulak finished off a quick Turkish counter-attack to equalize at 1-1 and send the home crowd in Sinop into ecstasy. Although the Swiss tried to react once more and went on the attack, they were unable to create any more compelling scoring chances against the defensively solid hosts. Switzerland thus conceded points for the first time in this qualifying campaign, while the Turks were able to celebrate their first ever point against a Swiss side.
Advancement remains within reach
Despite the draw, Switzerland's starting position remains good. With ten points from four games, the team remains top of the table in qualifying Group 2 (League B) and keeps second-placed Turkey (7 points) at bay. Since the direct duel counts in the event of a tie - which Switzerland won thanks to their 3:1 victory in the first leg - group victory and the associated direct return to League A of the Nations League is virtually assured.
The final decision will be made in the remaining two matches: Switzerland will host Malta on June 5, before an away match against Northern Ireland on June 9 concludes the group stage.
Telegram and ranking
Turkey - Switzerland 1:1 (0:0)
Sinop - 10,000 spectators. - Refereed by Kulcsar (HUN). - Goals: 52nd Crnogorcevic 0:1. 79th Altunkulak 1:1.
Turkey: Akgöz; Keskin (46. Cin), Kücükbirinci, Karatas, Sakar (73. Kardesler); Topcu (86. Hiz), Icinözbebek (46. Civelek); Seker, Kaya, Altunkulak; Hancar (73. Öztürk).
Switzerland: Peng; Riesen (91. Piubel), Calligaris, Maritz, Crnogorcevic; Reuteler (80. Kamber), Wälti, Schertenleib; Beney (80. Wandeler), Csillag (73. Fölmli), Xhemaili.
Remarks: Cautions: 59. Seker.
Ranking: 1. Switzerland 4/10 (10:3). 2. Turkey 4/7 (6:4). 3. Northern Ireland 3/3 (4:3). 4. Malta 3/0 (1:11).
