(ANSA) - BERLIN - They duel over Erdogan, whom, however, they both would like to remain outside Europe, and on the migrant issue. But the two challengers also succeed in finding out they have some points in common, beginning with the colour choice: for the duel on tv, Angela Merkel and Martin Schulz both opted for blue: a tie for him, a jacket for her.

In the 95-minute duel 95 in front of four journalists from some TV broadcasters - Maybrit Illner (ZDF) Sandra Maischberger (ARD) Peter Kloeppel (RTL) and Claus Strunz (Sat 1) - the two often seemed to agree, quoted each other, showing mutual respect. Yet the Chancellor at times seemed unmovable in her dissent, if not even resentful. ''If I become chancellor, I will stop the negotiations for Turkey's entry into the EU'', said the SPD candidate. ''I will not break relations with Turkey, just to show I have the toughest stance'', the chancellor harshly replied. Merkel announced that ''we are considering the option to strengthen alerts for German travels to Turkey'', after the recent arrests of German citizens.

Schulz replied touching on the refugee issue: in 2015 it was wrong to open doors in Germany without consulting with European partners'', he said. ''At that time it was necessary to make a decision,'', Merkel said. (ANSA).