Mediterranean Games 2026: North Macedonia U20 beaten 3-0 by Turkey
Turkey's Ozkan struck three times (26', 41', 60') as North Macedonia U20 lost 3:0 in Taranto and saw their progression chances reduced to a minimum.
Taranto — On 24.08.2026 (23:05) North Macedonia's U20 side suffered a heavy 3:0 defeat to Turkey in their second Group A match at the Mediterranean Games, leaving their hopes of advancing to the next phase in serious doubt.
Turkey were clearly superior and wrapped up the win thanks to three strikes from Ozkan, who scored in the 26th, 41st and 60th minutes.
Match details
Aleksandar Tanevski's squad were unable to find a way back into the game after falling behind late in the first half and failed to convert the opportunities they created.
North Macedonia (U20) lined up as: Radeski, Velkov, Murati, Atanasovski, Shabotic, Arifi, Manojlov, Nikolovski, Iloski, Delov, Tasev.
Also used from the bench were: Mateski, Bojadzhiev, Golubov, Stojanovski, Nezirovski.
With the loss the Macedonian side will need favourable results and a decisive victory in their remaining fixtures if they are to keep qualification hopes alive.
Photo: press material from the event
