Turkiye 0-0 Wales: Akturkoglu misses last-gasp penalty in Nations League draw

Wales held firm to earn a goalless draw against Turkiye in the Nations League, with Kerem Akturkoglu striking the post with a last-gasp penalty as the visitors remained unbeaten under Craig Bellamy.

Bellamy's side attempted just four shots throughout the contest and only hit the target once, but a stoic defensive performance – and a hint of good fortune – saw them escape with a point.

Turkiye were limited to long-range efforts for much of the first half despite dominating possession, though they should have gone ahead through Yunus Akgun in the 32nd minute. Akgun raced clear of the Welsh backline but was foiled when one-on-one by Karl Darlow, who was off his line quickly to make the all-important block.

Turkiye lost talisman Hakan Calhanoglu to an apparent injury at half-time and struggled for fluency in the midfielder's absence, as the Wales backline enjoyed a far more comfortable time.

Their hard work was almost undone at the death when Neco Williams was perhaps harshly penalised for an apparent trip on Enes Unal, but Akturkoglu fluffed his lines from the spot, sending Darlow the wrong way but seeing his kick bounce clear off the upright.

The result leaves Turkiye and Wales first and second in Group B4, with 11 and nine points respectively.

Wales, now unbeaten in five games under Bellamy, could yet overhaul Turkiye to secure automatic promotion, though Iceland's 1-0 victory over Montenegro means they will slip into the relegation playoffs if they lose to Age Hareide's team on Tuesday.

Data Debrief: Turkiye fail to take their chances

Should Turkiye fail to secure promotion to the top tier of the Nations League when they face Montenegro next week, they will look back on this match with more than a few regrets.

The hosts generated 2.77 expected goals (xG) from 25 shots, compared to just 0.24 xG for Wales, but they simply could not find a way through.

Turkiye have been awarded more penalties in the Nations League overall than any other side (nine), but only Serbia (four) have missed more than their three in the competition.