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ISTANBUL, Turkey (AP) -Turkey had two bitter losses to Brazil in the 2002 World Cup, including a semifinals defeat.
How odd that the Turks have turned to a Brazil-born player to help them at next month's European Championship.
Midfielder Mehmet Aurelio has been a mainstay in Turkey's lineup ever since he became a citizen of his adopted country. At Euro 2008, the Fenerbahce player will be expected to rule the midfield when Turkey faces co-host Switzerland, Portugal and the Czech Republic in Group A.
Aurelio first played for Turkey in 2006, shortly after he became a citizen. By then, he was already 29 years old. And since then, Aurelio has played in all 17 Turkey matches, helping the team finish second behind Greece in its qualifying group.
It wasn't always easy for Aurelio to gain acceptance.
After his Turkey debut, Aurelio assured the Turkish fans there was little doubt about his allegiance despite outcry that coach Fatih Terim was blocking the way of other local talent.
"This is one of the most important days of my life," Aurelio said. "I know this is a first. I am aware of the responsibilities, but no one should forget that I am not a foreigner but a Turkish national."
With his hardworking style, Aurelio provided what Turkey had been missing in World Cup qualifying: a strong defensive midfielder with sweeping skills. And not only did he make it easier on the defense, but he also brought creativity to the way Turkey set up its offense.
Aurelio first played in the Turkish league in 2001 after signing with Trabzonspor. Back then, the little-known Brazilian was called Marco Aurelio. But his resilience and tackling skills soon forced others to take notice, and he later joined Fenerbahce.
Since joining the Istanbul club, Aurelio has won three league titles in five seasons and also helped Fenerbahce reach the quarterfinals of the Champions League.
Because Turkey has a law that allows foreign players to become citizens after five consecutive years in the league, Aurelio took advantage of the opportunity, and changed his name to Mehmet. Besides becoming eligible to play for Turkey, it also allowed Fenerbahce to sign another foreign player.
June's tournament in Austria and Switzerland will give Aurelio another chance to prove to his critics that he belongs.
