Soccer

Turkey’s Merih Demiral faces UEFA probe for ‘alleged inappropriate behaviour’

Demiral scored twice as Turkey beat Austria 2-1 in an entertaining encounter in Leipzig.

Merih Demiral’s gesture to Turkish supporters is being investigated by UEFA
Merih Demiral’s gesture to Turkish supporters is being investigated by UEFA (Adam Davy/PA)
By Jamie Gardner, PA Chief Sports Reporter

Turkey’s Euro 2024 last-16 matchwinner Merih Demiral is under investigation by UEFA for allegedly making a political gesture as he celebrated his country’s victory over Austria.

Demiral scored twice as Turkey beat Austria 2-1 in an entertaining encounter in Leipzig, both following corners from teenage star Arda Guler.

UEFA issued a statement on Wednesday morning confirming an ethics and disciplinary investigator had been appointed in accordance with Article 31 (4) of its disciplinary regulations to look into “alleged inappropriate behaviour”.

Demiral fired in Turkey’s opener in the first minute
Demiral fired in Turkey’s opener in the first minute (Adam Davy/PA)

UEFA is understood to be investigating whether Demiral gave a so-called ‘wolf’s salute’, a gesture linked to the Turkish nationalist movement.

Demiral, who plays for Saudi club Al Ahli, opened the scoring in the first minute and added a second just before the hour mark.

Michael Gregoritsch pulled one back for Austria and they almost forced extra-time but for a wonderful save from Turkey goalkeeper Mert Gunok.