Turkey’s Euro 2024 last-16 matchwinner Merih Demiral is under investigation by UEFA for allegedly making a political gesture as he celebrated his country’s victory over Austria.
Demiral scored twice as Turkey beat Austria 2-1 in an entertaining encounter in Leipzig, both following corners from teenage star Arda Guler.
UEFA issued a statement on Wednesday morning confirming an ethics and disciplinary investigator had been appointed in accordance with Article 31 (4) of its disciplinary regulations to look into “alleged inappropriate behaviour”.
![Turkey's Merih Demiral scores from close range to open the scoring against Austria in a Euro 2024 last-16 match](http://image.assets.pressassociation.io/v2/image/production/040030e3f6cfc38c5499654fbf5abff4Y29udGVudHNlYXJjaGFwaSwxNzIwMDg0ODQ1/2.76730367.jpg?w=640)
UEFA is understood to be investigating whether Demiral gave a so-called ‘wolf’s salute’, a gesture linked to the Turkish nationalist movement.
Demiral, who plays for Saudi club Al Ahli, opened the scoring in the first minute and added a second just before the hour mark.
Michael Gregoritsch pulled one back for Austria and they almost forced extra-time but for a wonderful save from Turkey goalkeeper Mert Gunok.