İsmail Yüksek
CM
Creative Playmaker
Jan 26, 1999 (27)
Right
6'0"
165 lb
Strong defensively in defeat
Yuksek registered two shots (zero on goal) in Friday's 1-0 loss versus Paraguay.
Analysis: Yuksek put in one of Turkey's stronger defensive performances on a disappointing night for the team, winning four tackles, making four clearances and two interceptions while also having two shots himself. However he was taken off after 60 minutes as coach Vincenzo Montella felt his defensive contribution was less of a priority after the red card recieved by the opposition and turned to more attacking options in search of a way through Paraguay's stubborn defence. The midfielder has started the last two games and up next is the final game against the United States, and with Turkey eliminated, it remains to be seen whether coach Vincenzo Montella will give opportunities to players who haven't had much playing time, or aim to finish in the best way possible, with Orkun Kokcu or Salih Ozcan as possible replacement.
Three shots in loss
Yuksek had three shots (zero on goal) in Sunday's 2-0 loss to Australia.
Analysis: Yuksek logged 81 minutes in Turkiye's double pivot alongside Hakan Calhanoglu, putting in solid defensive work but struggling to stamp his authority on the game in possession against an Australian midfield that matched every battle with relentless intensity. He was subbed off for Salih Ozcan in the 81st minute after firing three shots, none of which tested the goalkeeper, as Australia's disciplined shape consistently took away the pockets of space he likes to operate in from deeper areas. His partnership with Calhanoglu will need to take a major step forward when Turkiye square off against the United States in their second group-stage matchup.
Expected to start in midfield
Yuksek has been named in Turkiye's World Cup squad and holds a slight edge in the competition for a starting role in the midfield.
Analysis: Yuksek made 30 Super Lig appearances for Fenerbahce this season, contributing one goal and two assists while bringing the defensive intensity and physical presence that makes him a reliable midfield option for coach Montella when a more combative presence is needed alongside Hakan Calhanoglu. Yuksek's ability to win the ball and protect the defensive line gives Turkiye a different midfield profile to the more technical Orkun Kokcu, and the coach appears to favour his direct approach as the tournament begins. Yuksek heads into the World Cup ready to make the most of his opportunity to nail down a starting role for the Crescent Stars.
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