PHANTOM STAT

Türkiye secured a commanding 2–0 victory over Bulgaria in World Cup qualifying on 15 November, dominating proceedings through superior attacking intent and execution. The hosts controlled the match with 19 shots to Bulgaria's 9, converting their chances with clinical efficiency; Türkiye's expected goals of 2.46 reflected their sustained pressure, while Bulgaria managed just 0.31 xG from a defensive 4–5–1 setup. Hakan Çalhanoğlu opened the scoring as Türkiye's 4–2–3–1 formation proved too fluid for the visitors, who offered little going forward despite Bulgaria's goalkeeper maintaining a perfect 100 per cent save percentage on the limited opportunities that came his way. Nick Walsh oversaw proceedings without controversy in a one-sided affair that underlined the gulf in quality between the sides. Türkiye's ruthless finishing extends their qualifying campaign momentum considerably.