Turkish national team players filmed smoking before World Cup match

A video circulating on social media platform X appears to show several Turkish national football players smoking on a hotel balcony just hours before a critical World Cup match. The footage has ignited a scandal within the Turkish camp, overshadowing preparations for their opening Group D game against Australia.

The video clearly identifies Fenerbahçe defender Çağlar Söyüncü, a key player expected to start. Two other footballers are visible but their identities are obscured by the camera angle and poor lighting. The incident has drawn widespread criticism from fans, who question the players' professionalism and focus on the eve of a major tournament.

Speculation is rife regarding what the players were smoking, with theories ranging from ordinary cigarettes to marijuana. However, there has been no official confirmation or comment from the Turkish team. The players were reportedly staying in a luxury hotel in downtown Vancouver, Canada, after arriving from their training base in Arizona.

The timing of the scandal is particularly concerning. The United States has already secured a dominant 4-1 victory over Paraguay in the group, placing significant pressure on Turkey to perform. According to Opta's predictions, Turkey was considered a strong favorite against Australia, with a 55% chance of winning. The team boasts talented players like Arda Güler, Hakan Çalhanoğlu, Kenan Yıldız, and Söyüncü.

“

According to this video and reports, Çağlar Söyüncü and 2 other national team players, who aren’t clearly recognizable, were caught smoking. Some say it was a joint, others say cigarettes. Unbelievable. You already don’t deserve to be at the National Team and now you smoke.