ISTANBUL, Nov. 17 (Xinhua) -- Turkey's top goalkeeper Volkan Demirel walked out of a crucial Euro 2016 qualifier due to abuse by Turkish fans on Sunday.
The bearded Demirel was warming up on the pitch before the qualifier against Kazakhstan when he heard insults directed at him from the stands.
He initially told the fans to be quiet but the abuse continued and Demirel waved then removed his gloves and marched off the pitch.
The game was played at the Turk Telekom Arena, the home of Istanbul giants Galatasaray. Demirel plays for their Istanbul archrivals Fenerbahce and has long been a hate figure for Galatasaray fans.
Footage of the incident appears to show that the abuse came from supporters dressed in Galatasaray kit.
Turkish media said Demirel then went to national coach Fatih Terim and said he would rather not play in the game.
Demirel was replaced in the game by reserve goalkeeper Volkan Babacan and Turkey defeated Kazakhstan 3-1.
Turkish media said Demirel could, under existing regulations, face a fine or a suspension for his walkout.
Meanwhile, there were violent scuffles outside the stadium as reporters seeking to approach Demirel as he left were beaten by security personnel, Turkish television reported.