“Gol Atan Cepheye,” a documentary film, sheds light on the role football played during the existential struggles of Turkish Cypriots, narrated through the accounts of witnesses from that era. The documentary explores why Turkish Cypriots chose football as a tool for motivation and organization amidst the attacks that began in the 1950s, presenting both painful and hopeful stories.
The project is directed by sports writer and lecturer Erdal Hoş. The film not only documents lesser-known memories of Turkish Cypriots but also emphasizes that football is “more than just a game,” carrying a deeper significance. Characters who lived through and witnessed the events recount incidents from the period between 1955-1974.
Supported by the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TİKA), the documentary reveals how Turkish Cypriots demonstrated defense and resilience through football during challenging times.