Euro 2012 Group A: Turkey up to third

Turkey’s Euro 2012 qualifying campaign is back on track following a 2-1 home win over Austria.

Goals from Arda Turan and Gokhan Gonul were enough to ensure victory for Guus Hiddink’s men.

The result sees Austria relinquish third spot in Group A to their opponents, which is being dominated by heavyweights Germany, who recently romped to a 4-1 victory over Kazahkstan.

Galatasaray midfielder Turan gaveTurkey the lead after beating two defenders before he placed the ball past Austria goalkeeper Jurgen Macho.

The Turks doubled their lead through Gokhan, and had their glovesman, Volkan Demirel, to thank for saving a Stefan Maierhofer penalty in the 84th minute.

The group’s other match saw Belgium record a resounding 4-1 victory over Azerbaijan.

Belgium now moves to second although Turkey have a game in hand. Azerbaijan have three points and are second from bottom, with a negative goal difference.

Jan Vertonghen’s opener was cancelled out by Ruslan Abushev’s 16th minute goal, although his equaliser was not enough for the Azerbaijanis.

The Belgians marched to victory with goals from Timmy Simons, Nacer Chadli and Jelle Vossen.