Necla Güngör Kıragası: 'Our playoff chances are high'

Kıragası stated that just one point would be enough to secure a playoff spot and that their chances are very high.

Speaking to the press after the match at Yıldız Entegre Kocaeli Stadium, Kıragası noted that the team started well and fought hard.

She explained that Switzerland's physical superiority became evident in the second half: "We started losing control of the ball in the second half. Our focus now shifts to the Hungary match. You will surely see Turkiye in the first group of the European Championship playoffs. I am proud of my players; their fight for the development of women's football and their performance in such a competitive match is extremely significant."

Describing Switzerland as "challenging," Kıragası added:

"In every shoulder-to-shoulder battle, our players were worn out, and recovering from that within 15 minutes is hardly possible. We tried to balance the game by bringing in new players, but we conceded a goal, and our motivation dropped. They are physically far superior to us. We have been in camp for 11 days, and this is the best we could achieve. We can deliver our best game for 45 minutes, but when you look at their players, they are all world stars, playing in top clubs under the best conditions. That difference becomes evident."

Kıragası emphasized that the players tried to fight with their physical capabilities until the last minute: "Switzerland is ranked 24th in the FIFA rankings, Hungary 41st, and we are 61st. We played a good tactical match against Hungary in our first encounter and managed to win 2-1 with goals in the second half. One point is enough for us to secure a playoff spot; the top three teams advance, and our chances are very high. We aim to show our best game, start with good rest and recovery, and face Hungary with a refreshed Turkiye."

Switzerland's Perspective

Switzerland Women's National Team coach Pia Sundhage expressed satisfaction with their performance.

Sundhage noted that they controlled the game for 90 minutes: "We are pleased with not conceding a goal and scoring two. My main job is to ensure the players give their best and perform at their highest level. There's no easy game."

She mentioned that they faced challenges against Hungary and Turkiye and could not consider the match against Azerbaijan as easy either: "That's the beauty of football. We have different playing styles and cultures, which will greatly enhance women's football."