Turkey executed a near-perfect low-block counter-attacking game plan against a technically superior Belgian side. Çalhanoğlu's positional discipline as a double-pivot anchor allowed Güler and Yıldız the freedom to operate as advanced 10s, exploiting the gaps left by Belgium's high full-backs. De Bruyne was Belgium's creative engine throughout — his free-kick was unstoppable — but the Red Devils' over-reliance on Lukaku as a lone focal point was exposed by Turkey's physicality in the air. The penalty shootout was the defining moment: Günok's preparation, reportedly including detailed analysis of Belgium's takers, paid dividends with two crucial saves. Turkey now face a quarter-final with genuine belief; Belgium's golden generation exits the tournament without the trophy their talent always promised.

• Arda Güler registered a goal + assist in 90 minutes — his 4th direct goal contribution of the tournament, most of any U-22 player.
• Kevin De Bruyne's free-kick was his 3rd set-piece goal at this World Cup, equalling the record for a single tournament.
• Mert Günok saved 2 of 5 Belgium penalties — the joint-best shootout performance by a keeper at WC 2026.
• Turkey's xG of 1.82 vs Belgium's 2.41 underlines how Günok and the Turkish block overperformed their defensive metrics.
• Romelu Lukaku's header was his 100th international goal — a landmark moment, though ultimately not enough.
• Belgium dominated possession (57%) and shots (18 vs 14) but were undone by Turkey's clinical counter-attacking and set-piece vulnerability.
• Kenan Yıldız's 88th-minute equaliser was the latest goal in a Round of 16 game at WC 2026, sending the match to extra time.