Turkish Pocket Aces

Turkish Pocket Aces is a poker slang term for a pair of eights (8,8) in the hole. This nickname comes from a cultural reference to the Turkish army which was once famously defeated while holding an advantage of 8 to 1.

What is Turkish Pocket Aces in Poker?

In poker, Turkish pocket aces refers to a specific hand: a pair of eights (8,8). This hand is not a premium pocket pair in Texas Hold'em but it does have some potential for making a set or full house. The nickname comes from a historical event where the Turkish army was defeated despite holding an 8 to 1 advantage.

The Significance of the Turkish Pocket Aces Hand

The Turkish pocket aces (8,8) is a medium-strength starting hand in Texas Hold'em. It's not as strong as higher pocket pairs, but it can still be a profitable hand if played correctly. The key is to understand that while it has potential, it's often not strong enough to withstand heavy action. It's often best played in position and in pots where you're not facing too much aggression.
If you hit a set, you have a very strong holding. But if you miss, you'll likely face some tough decisions on the streets as there is a high possibility of at least one overcard landing.

Example of "Turkish Pocket Aces"

An example of the Turkish pocket aces in action could be in a game of Texas Hold'em. You're dealt a pair of eights. The flop comes and there's another eight on the board. You now have three of a kind with your Turkish pocket aces.

• "I was dealt Turkish pocket aces and managed to hit a set on the flop."
• "With my Turkish pocket aces, I decided to call the pre-flop raise."
• "The Turkish pocket aces can be a profitable hand if played correctly."