Turkey international Ozan Tufan says he is unable to relate to criticism against him for adjusting his hair seconds before Luka Modric put the ball past him and into the net to secure Croatia's 1-0 win in their first group match.
Instead of attempting to block Modric's shot, Tufan, 21, brushed his hair out of his face as the ball was cleared inside the Turkey box to land on the Croatian midfielder's foot.
His role in the Croatia goal had been heavily criticised, but speaking to reporters the Fenerbahce player defended himself.
"I don't get how a single moment in which I do my hair is deemed a mistake and then is put on the agenda in all of Turkey, and is regarded as more important than the match itself," Tufan said.
"It not only damages my confidence, but also that of my teammates. We all represent our country, and we all fight for our flag."
Fenerbahce president Aziz Yildirim backed his player in quotes reported by German sports wire SID, and then hit out at Turkey coach Fatih Terim.
"You can't just throw a young talent like him to the wolves," Yildirim said. "National team coach Fatih Terim and FA president Yildirim Demiroren have to defend the lad."
