Turkey sent home after failing to score in two matches
In one of the most shocking narratives of the 2026 World Cup, Turkey have been eliminated from the tournament after a 1-0 defeat to Paraguay at Levi's Stadium in San Francisco. The Crescent-Stars came into the competition as many pundits' dark horses, yet they depart without a single goal to their name, having mustered a combined 62 attempts across two matches but failing to find the net even once.
Vincenzo Montella's side, who also lost their opening fixture against Australia, became just the second side to suffer an early exit, joining Haiti through the exit door. It is a bitterly disappointing end for a team that boasted talents like Kenan Yildiz and Can Uzun, both of whom were repeatedly denied by a stubborn Paraguayan defence.
Galarza's lightning strike sets the tone
Paraguay struck with breathtaking speed, as Matias Galarza unleashed a long-range effort after just 65 seconds that flew past goalkeeper Ugurcan Cakir. The goal stands as the fastest of the tournament so far, and it immediately put Turkey on the back foot.
Despite dominating possession and creating a flurry of chances, Turkey could not break through. Orlando Gill in the Paraguay goal made five crucial saves to preserve the lead, while Mert Muldur saw his header from a clever free-kick routine cannon off the crossbar and then the post. The agony was compounded when Merih Demiral's flicked header in stoppage time sailed wide, extinguishing any remaining hope.
Almiron's red card and VAR drama
The game took a dramatic turn just before half-time when Paraguay's Miguel Almiron was shown a red card following a VAR review. Almiron was adjudged to have covered his mouth during a confrontation with Muldur, an offence that fell under a new protocol aimed at increasing transparency. Referee Ivan Barton was sent to the monitor and subsequently dismissed the midfielder, forcing Paraguay to play the entire second half with ten men.
Even with the numerical advantage, Turkey could not capitalise. Paraguay's defensive discipline was exemplary, holding firm with just 22% possession and blocking shot after shot. Their resilience means they remain alive in Group D, with a decisive final match against Australia to come.
What happens next in Group D
With hosts USA already confirmed as group winners, the second qualification spot will be decided when Paraguay face Australia in the final round. Paraguay need a win to advance, while Australia can progress with a draw. Turkey, meanwhile, will head home to begin a period of introspection after a World Cup campaign that promised much but delivered nothing.
Key Takeaways
- Turkey recorded the most attempts (62) without scoring in any two-match span in World Cup history.
- Paraguay's goal after 65 seconds is the fastest of the 2026 tournament to date.
- Miguel Almiron's red card just before half-time forced Paraguay into a heroic defensive display with ten men.
- The result eliminates Turkey and sets up a straight shootout between Paraguay and Australia for second place in Group D.
- Turkey join Haiti as the first teams eliminated from the 2026 World Cup.
Quick Facts
Result: Turkey 0-1 Paraguay
Goalscorer: Matias Galarza (2')
Red Card: Miguel Almiron (45'+2) – violent conduct
Possession: Turkey 78% – 22% Paraguay
Total Attempts (Turkey): 62 across two matches without a goal
Paraguay Saves: Orlando Gill – 5