Qatar World Cup 2022 play-offs: Turkey's Yilmaz retires after loss against Portugal

Turkey captain Burak Yilmaz announced his retirement from international football after missing a late penalty in a 3-1 defeat by Portugal in a World Cup qualifying playoff match on Thursday.

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Turkey's captain Burak Yilmaz has announced his retirement from international football after missing a crucial penalty during their 3-1 defeat against Portugal in the Qatar World Cup 2022 play-offs on Thursday.

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The 36-year-old Yilmaz netted in the second half of the clash to give Turkey a glimmer of hope before missing a late opportunity to level the game at 2-2 by firing his penalty shoot-out over the bar in the 85th minute.

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Following the loss, the Turkey captain said, "If I had scored the penalty, it would have been difficult for Portugal. I missed it, but why? I'm in shock as well."

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"I would like to cut to the point. Today (Thursday) was my last match with the national team. There needs to be a change. Just as I had taken the lead back then, now I need to pass it on to my teammates and support them externally," Yilmaz added.

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"It is a final decision stripped of emotions. One that is taken rationally. This change needs to happen," he concluded.

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In 77 international appearances for Turkey, Yilmaz has scored 31 goals and represented the country at the Euro 2016 and 2020. He joined Ligue 1 side Lille in August 2020, which also confirmed his retirement from international football on social media. Turkey last qualified for the World Cup finals in 2002, when they finished third.