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Xtra Time Web Desk: In a thrilling clash on Tuesday, Turkey's Merih Demiral opened the scoring just 57 seconds into the match, setting the record for the fastest goal in a European Championship knockout stage and the second-fastest in the tournament's history. The central defender's heroics guided Turkey to a high-octane 2-1 victory over Austria, securing their place in the Euro 2024 quarterfinals. Demiral struck again with a powerful header just before the hour mark, setting up an exciting quarterfinal showdown against the Netherlands in Berlin on Saturday.

Austria, regarded as one of the tournament's dark horses, faced a bitter end to their European Championship journey. Michael Gregoritsch managed to cut the deficit midway through the second half, but Austria is still waiting for their first win in a knockout match at a major tournament since 1954.

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The game started frantically, with Demiral capitalizing on a goalmouth scramble to fire the ball into the roof of the net, marking the fastest goal ever in a European Championship knockout match. Despite their early lead, Turkey strategically ceded possession to Austria, who had previously beaten them 6-1 in March. Utilizing a high-pressing 5-4-1 formation, Turkey disrupted Austria's typically straightforward playing style.

Even without their suspended captain Hakan Calhanoglou, Turkey, semifinalists at Euro 2008, successfully kept Austria at bay. Ralf Rangnick's side struggled to create opportunities, failing to register any shots on target in the first half.

Austria came out with renewed vigor after the break and nearly equalized six minutes into the second half when captain Marko Arnautovic found himself one-on-one with the keeper. However, Mert Gunok's crucial block denied the Austrians. Instead, Turkey extended their lead as Demiral outjumped two defenders to head home in the 59th minute, putting his team 2-0 up.

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Under pouring rain, Austria managed to pull a goal back through substitute Gregoritsch, who finished at the far post in the 66th minute. Despite late pressure and a golden opportunity for Christoph Baumgartner, whose shot was superbly saved by Gunok in stoppage time, Austria could not find an equalizer.

With this victory, Turkey advances to face the Netherlands, who triumphed over Romania with a 3-0 win earlier on Tuesday.