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Emre Mor set to be a superstar for Turkey

A relatively unknown 18-year-old playing in Denmark a couple of months ago, Emre Mor announced himself as a superstar with his performance for Turkey on Tuesday.

Emre Mor and Cenk Tosun celebrate after the final whistle
Emre Mor and Cenk Tosun celebrate after the final whistle ©AFP/Getty Images

Turkey's 2-0 victory against the Czech Republic did not only breathe life into the Crescent-Stars' UEFA EURO 2016 campaign. It also marked the dawn of a new superstar in Emre Mor.

Making just his fourth appearance for his country – and his first senior international start – the 18-year-old forward set Stade Bollaert-Delelis alight with his dazzling pace, slick movement and eye for a pass. Indeed he teed up Burak Yılmaz for Turkey's opener after just ten minutes.

"Yes I played well, but the whole team played well; it was not only me," the Denmark-born youngster told EURO2016.com. "I don't think I could play like this if the team was not there; they were all good and that's why I was good."

If Emre signing for Bundesliga giants Borussia Dortmund earlier this month was not enough to announce his name to the world, Tuesday night surely was. Even in Turkey he is a new find, his talent not fully exposed until the friendly against Montenegro in May.

He came on as a half-time substitute that night but 45 minutes was enough so show off his fearless drive and vision. He single-handedly set the tempo. 

©AFP/Getty Images

Nobody questioned Fatih Terim's decision to include an unknown 18-year-old from Nordsjælland in his EURO squad thanks to that performance. Turkey's coach has spoken highly of him throughout the tournament.

"Emre Mor is an extraordinary player," he said. "I invited him to the national team and I believe I made the right call. I believe he will grow into a world-class player once he's learned how to play the right style of football."

Still, Terim did not play him right away. However, when he has been used he has stood out. Turkey's best moments against Croatia were after he had come on, though Terim then overlooked him entirely against Spain. "We could have lost him in that mess," said the coach after the 3-0 loss to the holders.

How wise that proved. Emre's technique and pace intimidated the Czechs, the highlight – aside from his assist – coming when he dribbled through the entire Czech half, cut into the centre and shot just over from the edge of the penalty area. It was reminiscent of Michael Owen's memorable goal against Argentina in the 1998 FIFA World Cup. 

It is difficult to play down his talents any more. "He is our flower," said Burak. Mehmet Topal added: "I did not think he would settle in the squad that easily and that fast. But he has settled very well thanks to his performances and his attitude off the pitch."