Preview: Türkiye vs Romania Prediction, lineups, betting tips & odds | 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers

Neither of the last four matches between these sides have ended in a draw.
Turkey are now going to take on Romania for their semi-final fixture of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers Play-Offs (UEFA region). This is going to be an interesting clash, taking place at the Vodafone Park.
The Crescent-Stars will be at home and it will be an added advantage for them in their upcoming clash. They held the European champions, Spain, to a 2-2 draw in their last matchup. The Turkish national football team put up a strong battle and showed that they have a capable side.
The Romanian national football team are going to put up a strong fight here despite being away from home. They have a good record against the Crescent-Stars and are not going to let them slide easily. It is not going to be an easy task for the Tricolorii. Their performances in the FIFA World Cup qualifiers have not been top-notch, but they will be looking to give their all this time around.
Kick-off:
- Location: Istanbul, Turkey
- Stadium: Vodafone Park
- Date: Thursday, March 26
- Kick-off Time: 10:30 PM IST/ 05:00 PM GMT/ 12:00 PM ET/ 09:00 AM PT
- Referee: TBA
- VAR: In use
Form:
Turkey: L-W-W-W-D
Romania: D-W-W-L-W
Players to Watch
Kenan Yildiz (Turkey)

The 20-year-old is going to play an important role in the attacking front for the Turkey national football team. He has performed well in his recent fixtures for Juventus and will be looking to carry his momentum into the World Cup qualifiers to help his national team. He has already scored three goals in the qualifying matches of the mega competition.
Dennis Man (Romania)
In the absence of many important players, Dennis Man will play a crucial part in the final third for the Romania national football team. He has been in decent form for his club and will now be looking to step up his game to help his country. Man will be eager to put in all his efforts to help his team.
Match Facts
- Turkey are undefeated in their last four games.
- Romania have won two of their last three matches.
- Neither of the last four matches between these sides have ended in a draw.
Turkey vs Romania: Betting Tips and Odds
- Turkey to win @21/50 BetMGM
- Kenan Yildiz to score @7/4 bet365
- Goals over 3.5 @17/10 Betway
Injury and Team News
Zeki Celik and Merih Demiral might not be in action for Turkey due to their lack of fitness.
All of the selected players for Romania are all set and ready to be in action.
Head-to-Head
Total matches: 27
Turkey won: 5
Romania won: 14
Draws: 8
Predicted Lineups
Turkey predicted lineup (5-4-1)

Bayindir (GK); Muldur, Bardakci, Akaydin, Elmali, Kadioglu; Guler, Kokcu, Calhanoglu, Ozcan; Yildiz
Romania predicted lineup (4-3-3)
Ionut Radu (GK); Ratiu, Ghita, Dragusin, Bancu; Dragomir, Screciu, Tanase; Man, Birligea, Baiaram
Match Prediction
Neither of these sides can afford to lose here. The Turkish national football team are likely to come out on top and defeat the Romanian national football team in their upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifying clash.
Prediction: Turkey 3-1 Romania
Telecast Details
India: Sony Sports Network, SonyLIV
UK: Prime Video UK
USA: Disney+, Fox Sports, Fubo TV, ViX
When and where is Turkey vs Romania FIFA World Cup qualifier?
Thursday, March 26, 2025, at Vodafone Park in Istanbul, Turkey. Kick-Off is scheduled at 05:00 p.m. GMT.
Where and how to watch FIFA World Cup European qualifiers in India?
Fans can tune into Sony LIV and Sony Sports Network TV channels to watch the game live.
Where and how to watch FIFA World Cup European qualifiers in UK?
The match can be viewed live on Prime Video in the United Kingdom.
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Dilpreet is a dedicated football writer with a keen eye for World Football. As a proud Real Madrid fan, we believe his work reflects the same ambition and precision. Since joining Khel Now in 2025, he has crafted stories beyond scores, diving into tactics, culture, and emotion. With a strong background in content writing, he blends clarity with creativity, always aiming to bring the beautiful game closer to readers.