Paraguay secured a crucial 1-0 victory over Turkey and officially knocked the Turks out of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Under immense pressure after losing their opening match, the Paraguayans made the perfect start at Levi’s Stadium. Matías Galarza found the net after just two minutes following an assist from Julio Enciso, giving La Albirroja an early advantage that completely changed the course of the match.
The game quickly turned into a tense and physical battle. Just before halftime, referee Ivan Barton sent off Miguel Almirón after an altercation with M. Müldür, forcing Paraguay to play the entire second half with ten men.
Turkey immediately increased the pressure and dominated possession, but Paraguay’s defense remained organized and disciplined. Goalkeeper Orlando Gill delivered several important saves and frustrated the Turkish attackers throughout the match.
Turkey threw everything forward in search of an equalizer, with Kerem Aktürkoğlu, Arda Güler and Kenan Yıldız all trying to rescue their team. However, Paraguay resisted until the final whistle and celebrated a victory that keeps its qualification hopes alive. Paraguay will now face Australia in a decisive final group match, while Turkey exits the 2026 FIFA World Cup after suffering a second consecutive defeat.
