Rerun raises Turkey confidence

After watching a video of Saturday's victory against Norway, Fatih Terim feels Turkey will not be troubled by any "fear of losing" against Bosnia-Herzegovina.

Careful step
The 2-1 victory in Oslo enabled Turkey to leapfrog Norway into second place in Group C and they will qualify for UEFA EURO 2008™ with a win at home against Bosnia-Herzegovina on Wednesday. "This is the last step on the road to the finals," said Terim. "On Wednesday I believe our team will cause Turkish fans less concern and have no fear of losing but an ambition to win. We will qualify because the players know about the Bosnia-Herzegovina game and its importance."

Repeat performance
Terim's side would have been out of contention had they lost in Norway, but produced an excellent performance with their backs to the wall which made great viewing days later. "We were excited just watching the video," said Terim. "Once more, I would like to thank my players. They tackled a big challenge. They put their hearts and talent into this and fought. In the end, they earned a memorable victory. We can praise them for it again and again."

'More than pleased'
Having seized control of their qualifying destiny, Turkey are determined not to let it slip again - with anything other than a win against Bosnia-Herzegovina potentially allowing Norway to steal back second place as they play in Malta. "After the Norway game, there were celebrations in the dressing room but I heard people saying: 'Let's save the party until Wednesday.' It is quite something for such young players to act so wisely and show common sense. I am more than pleased with that."

Kaş withdrawal
Terim will be a man down for the second leg, with Besiktas JK midfielder İbrahim Kaş laid off for three weeks after picking up a calf injury 16 minutes into the game in Oslo. The pacy 21-year-old was making his first international appearance. Sabrı Sarıoğlu from Galatasaray AS has made up the numbers in the squad. In addition, defender Deniz Barış has been withdrawn with concern about a groin injury afflicting the Fenerbahçe SK player.