Tbilisi: Trkiye kicked off their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign with a 3-2 away victory over Georgia on Thursday, securing three crucial points in Group E, APA reports citing Daily Sabah.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, the match in Tbilisi saw Trkiye take an early lead through Mert Mldr, who has now scored in consecutive fixtures against Georgia after also finding the net in the Euro 2024 group stage clash.

Kerem Aktrkoglu then stole the spotlight with a brace, extending his remarkable run for the national side. Aktrkoglu had also scored against Georgia in the same Euro 2024 encounter.

Trkiye were forced to play with 10 men from the 70th minute onward after Baris Alper Yilmaz was sent off with a straight red card, but Vincenzo Montella’s team held firm to preserve the win despite Georgia’s late pressure.

The victory gives Trkiye an ideal start in their quest to secure a spot at the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

Alongside Trkiye and Georgia, Group E also includes reigning European champions Spain and Bulgaria.

Bulgaria and Spain were to face later Thursday.

Only the group winner earns a direct ticket to the expanded 48-team tournament.