Türkiye eliminated from World Cup after narrow loss to Paraguay

Türkiye's 2026 FIFA World Cup journey concluded early Saturday following a narrow 1-0 defeat against Paraguay. The loss meant the Crescent-Stars finished their Group D campaign without a single point, marking an abrupt end to their aspirations.

Despite controlling possession for significant periods and enjoying a man advantage for the entire second half after Paraguay's Miguel Almirón was sent off, Türkiye struggled to break down a resolute Paraguayan defense. The decisive moment came early in the match when a defensive error by Abdülkerim Bardakcı allowed Paraguay's Mathias Galarza to score from outside the penalty area.

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The match, officiated by El Salvador's Ivan Barton, began disastrously for Türkiye. Just minutes after kickoff, defender Abdülkerim Bardakcı's attempted clearance fell kindly to Julio Enciso, who quickly fed Mathias Galarza. The midfielder took advantage of the space outside the penalty area and unleashed a low strike that beat goalkeeper Uğurcan Çakır, giving Paraguay a 1-0 lead.

Türkiye had several opportunities to equalize, including a powerful header from Mert Müldür that struck the crossbar and post in the first half. In the second half, even with numerical superiority, Vincenzo Montella's side could not find the back of the net. Chances were squandered by Kenan Yıldız, Merih Demiral, Deniz Gül, and Can Uzun, with the Paraguayan goalkeeper Gill making crucial saves.

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Under FIFA's newly introduced regulations, intentionally concealing speech during an on-field exchange is punishable by a red card. After a VAR review, Barton was sent to the monitor and subsequently dismissed Almiron in the 45th minute, reducing Paraguay to 10 men before halftime.

The red card for Almirón in first-half stoppage time, following a VAR review for intentionally concealing speech during an on-field exchange, seemed to offer Türkiye a clear path back into the game. However, their inability to capitalize on the situation underscored their offensive struggles throughout the tournament.

The defeat leaves Türkiye with much to reflect on, as they failed to advance from the group stage. Paraguay, meanwhile, celebrated a hard-fought victory, securing their progression with a disciplined defensive performance.

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Yet every attack seemed to end in frustration as Paraguay's defense held firm. Türkiye's final opportunity came in the 89th minute. Barış Alper Yılmaz drove down the right flank and delivered a low cross into the box. Can Uzun's effort was brilliantly saved by goalkeeper Gill, and Deniz Gül could only send the rebound wide of the post. It proved to be Türkiye's last realistic chance.