Matías Galarza: 'Each person is responsible for what they say; I find it outrageous'

Matías Galarza is poised to be a key figure for Paraguay as they prepare to face Turkey in their second match of the FIFA World Cup 2026. The midfielder, who is expected to replace Damián Bobadilla, spoke about the team's urgent need to rebound after a disappointing debut loss to the United States.

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Each person is responsible for what they say; I find it outrageous. I am proud, I am happy, my head is with the national team, with Friday's game.

Galarza addressed recent media reports suggesting he was upset about River Plate, his parent club, not planning to keep him. He firmly refuted these claims, stating, "Each person is responsible for what they say; I find it outrageous. I am proud, I am happy, my head is with the national team, with Friday's game." He stressed that his sole focus is on performing his best for his country.

Reflecting on the team's opening match, Galarza acknowledged the bitter taste of defeat but assured that the squad has moved past it and is now fully concentrated on the upcoming challenge. "We know the first game was not what we expected, but this group has character. We have to pick ourselves up and show what Paraguay is made of," he stated.

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We know the first game was not what we expected, but this group has character. We have to pick ourselves up and show what Paraguay is made of.

The midfielder highlighted the productive training sessions under coach Gustavo Alfaro, expressing confidence in the team's readiness to compete against Turkey. "We worked very well these days. We corrected mistakes and are prepared to compete. We know Turkey has great players, but we also know our strengths," Galarza said. He emphasized the team's goal to recapture the intense and committed style that defined their qualification campaign, aiming to fight for every ball as if it were their last.

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We worked very well these days. We corrected mistakes and are prepared to compete. We know Turkey has great players, but we also know our strengths.

Galarza also noted the significant support from Paraguayan fans in the United States, assuring that the team feels their backing and is eager to deliver a victory. Paraguay's match against Turkey is scheduled for Friday at Levi's Stadium, a crucial game that could significantly shape their World Cup campaign after a 16-year absence.

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We have to return to being the Paraguay that everyone knows, an intense team, supportive, and that fights for every ball as if it were the last.