Turkey were eliminated from the 2026 World Cup after a 1-0 defeat to Paraguay on Saturday morning, despite playing the entire second half with a numerical advantage. Matias Galarza scored after just 65 seconds, finishing a fine Julio Enciso pass, and that early goal stood up as Paraguay’s winner.
Turkey responded by taking control for long stretches, with Arda Guler, Kenan Yildiz and Hakan Calhanoglu moving the ball well and repeatedly pressing forward. But the Turks lacked a decisive finish, and most of their attempts either sailed over the bar or came from outside the box. Their best first-half chance was a shot that struck the crossbar, while a strong Chan Uzun effort in the 89th minute was one of the few real threats.
Paraguay’s task became harder in first-half stoppage time when Miguel Almiron, the former Newcastle player, was sent off directly in the 45+3 minute after covering his mouth. Even then, Turkey could not break through against a side considered one of South America’s weaker teams. The game’s outcome also secured top spot in Group D for the United States.
The result sent Turkey home at an early stage in only its third World Cup appearance and its first since 2002. The team had reached the Euro quarterfinals last summer, so the exit was described as a major disappointment. Paraguay, meanwhile, earned praise for its early strike and resilient defending, and may still advance, with Paraguay and Australia set to meet in a direct battle for second place.
