Matías Galarza scored inside two minutes and Paraguay held on with 10 men for over 45 minutes to beat Turkey 1-0 in Group D, defying 79% possession and 28 shots from their opponents.
Summary
Paraguay produced a remarkable defensive display to beat Turkey 1-0 in Group D of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, despite playing with 10 men for the entire second half. Matías Galarza scored after just two minutes, and Julio Enciso provided the assist. Turkey dominated possession and chances but could not find a way past the resilient Paraguayan defence.
Key Moments
- 2' Goal: Matías Galarza puts Paraguay ahead early, finishing from a Julio Enciso assist.
- 4' Yellow Card: Galarza is booked for a foul.
- 45' Red Card: Miguel Almirón is sent off, leaving Paraguay with 10 men for the second half.
- 63' Yellow Card: Vincenzo Montella (Turkey) is cautioned.
- 71' Yellow Card: Eren Elmali (Turkey) is booked.
Match Analysis
Turkey dominated proceedings with 79% ball possession and 28 total shots, but only five were on target. Paraguay, despite having just 21% possession, defended resolutely and limited Turkey's clear-cut chances. The visitors' expected goals (xG) of 0.29 reflects their defensive approach, while Turkey's xG of 1.70 shows they created enough to score but lacked finishing. Paraguay's goalkeeper made five saves, while Turkey's keeper made only one.
Player Performances
- Abdülkerim Bardakcı (Turkey) – 8/10: 2 key passes, 98% pass accuracy.
- Juan Cáceres (Paraguay) – 8/10: 1 shot on target, 1 key pass.
- Matías Galarza (Paraguay) – 7.7/10: Scored the winner, 1 shot on target.
- Junior Alonso (Paraguay) – 7.3/10: Solid defensive display.
- Julio Enciso (Paraguay) – 7.2/10: 1 assist, 2 key passes.
- Hakan Çalhanoğlu (Turkey) – 7.2/10: 3 key passes, 4 tackles and interceptions.
Key Stats
- Possession: Turkey 79% – 21% Paraguay
- Total shots: Turkey 28 – 7 Paraguay
- Shots on target: Turkey 5 – 2 Paraguay
- Corner kicks: Turkey 11 – 0 Paraguay
- Red cards: Turkey 0 – 1 Paraguay
- Expected goals: Turkey 1.70 – 0.29 Paraguay
What This Means
Paraguay take a crucial three points in Group D, putting them in a strong position to advance. Turkey, despite dominating, are left with work to do after failing to convert their superiority into goals. The result could have major implications for the standings.
What Happens Next
Both teams will look ahead to their next group matches. Turkey will need to regroup and find their finishing touch, while Paraguay will aim to build on this gritty win. Check the fixtures for upcoming games.
