Paraguay recovers its grit, defeats Turkey and keeps qualification chances firm

Paraguay rediscovered its fighting spirit, securing a crucial 1-0 victory over Turkey in the 2026 World Cup. The win, achieved with immense character and resilience, keeps the Albirroja's hopes of advancing to the next round alive. This performance marked a significant recovery after their opening match defeat.

The decisive moment came early when Matías Galarza found the back of the net in the first minute, following a buildup involving Miguel Almirón and Julio Enciso. This early goal provided Paraguay with a much-needed cushion, allowing them to focus on their defensive organization.

However, the match took a challenging turn before halftime. Matías Galarza received a yellow card, and shortly after, Miguel Almirón was controversially sent off with a direct red card. The referee, after a VAR review, deemed Almirón's action of covering his mouth while speaking to an opponent to be a sanctionable offense under new FIFA regulations. Playing with ten men for the entire second half presented a daunting task.

Despite being a man down, Paraguay showcased a combative spirit. Turkey dominated possession throughout the second half, pushing for an equalizer, but they were consistently thwarted by a solid Paraguayan defense and the goalkeeping heroics of Orlando Gill. The team's collective effort and unwavering discipline were key to preserving their lead and securing a vital three points.