Turkiye Women cruised to a comfortable 3-0 victory over Malta Women in a FIFA Women's World Cup qualification (UEFA) match on June 10, 2026. The result was never in doubt as Turkiye controlled proceedings from the first minute, showcasing their superior quality in a one-sided encounter.
Dominant First Half Display
Turkiye began the match with intensity, pressing Malta high up the pitch and forcing early errors. Inside the 10th minute, they took the lead when midfielder Ece Türkmen intercepted a loose pass and slotted home from the edge of the box. The goal settled any early nerves, and Turkiye continued to dictate the tempo.
Malta struggled to create any meaningful attacks, with their forwards isolated against a well-organized Turkish defense. Turkiye doubled their lead in the 35th minute through a clinical finish from forward Melike Öztürk, who turned her marker and fired low into the corner. The second goal came from a well-worked team move that sliced through Malta's defense.
Second Half: Turkiye Seals the Win
Malta showed more resistance after the break, but Turkiye's defense remained solid. Goalkeeper Selin Göksu was rarely tested, as the Turkish midfield dominated possession. Turkiye added a third goal in the 65th minute when a free-kick from captain Didem Karagenç was headed home by defender İlayda Civelek. The goal effectively ended the contest, with Malta unable to mount a comeback.
Turkiye had several chances to increase the lead further, but the scoreline remained 3-0. The visitors controlled the final 25 minutes, comfortably seeing out the game without any scares. Malta's best chance came in the 80th minute when a speculative shot from midfielder Ylenia Carabott sailed over the crossbar.
Key Performers
- Ece Türkmen (Turkiye): Scored the opener and controlled the midfield with her passing and defensive work.
- Melike Öztürk (Turkiye): Her well-taken goal added to her tally in the qualifying campaign.
- İlayda Civelek (Turkiye): Solid in defense and contributed a goal from a set piece.
Qualification Picture
Turkiye's dominant win keeps them in a strong position in the group, boosting their goal difference and confidence. Malta, meanwhile, face an uphill task to stay in contention, having struggled to match the pace of their opponents in this match. The Turkish team will look to maintain this form in their upcoming fixtures as they push for a place in the FIFA Women's World Cup.
The match was a professional performance from Turkiye, who showed their class against a limited Malta side. Set pieces and midfield control were the keys to their success, and they will be pleased with a clean sheet as well.

