In a thrilling Group D encounter, ten-man Paraguay secured a narrow 1-0 victory against a struggling Turkey, marking the fastest goal of the World Cup so far and revitalizing their tournament hopes while sending Turkey home early.
Paraguay, eager to bounce back from their 4-1 defeat to the USA in the opening match, took the lead just 64 seconds into the game when Matías Galarza unleashed a powerful long-range strike. They then defended tenaciously against relentless Turkish pressure throughout the match.
With the San Francisco Bay Area resonating with the sound of drums, Paraguay’s defense held firm against Turkey’s relentless assault. The situation became more challenging for Paraguay when Miguel Almirón received a red card after allegedly making remarks to Mert Muldur while covering his mouth.
The victory assured the United States of finishing first in Group D following their 2-0 win over Australia in Seattle. Next week, Australia and Paraguay will compete for the second spot in the group.
Despite dominating possession—holding 79% at one point—Turkey failed to convert their many chances into goals, recording 32 attempts without scoring, reminiscent of their high-shot loss to Australia in their opener.
While Turkey displayed creativity and posed threats, they faltered in front of goal. Juventus forward Kenan Yildiz and Real Madrid’s Arda Guler missed several opportunities, while Paraguay capitalized on their few chances and defended effectively.
Paraguay, known as “La Albirroja“, last played in the World Cup in 2010, where they were eliminated by eventual champions Spain in the quarter-final in their best-ever run in the tournament. Goalscorer Galarza said it was one of the best days of his life. “We showed our quality fighting spirits even with one player down. God wanted this to happen for Paraguay more than ever before,” last made an appearance in the World Cup in 2010, where they reached the quarter-finals before being eliminated by the eventual champions, Spain.
Galarza expressed his joy following the match, stating it was one of the best days of his life.
“I’m sad but I’m also very proud of my players. They gave everything right up until the final whistle. That’s what football’s like,” he said.
Turkey’s head coach, Vincenzo Montella, acknowledged his team’s efforts to stay in the tournament and accepted the disappointing outcome.
“I’m sad but I’m also very proud of my players. They gave everything right up until the final whistle. That’s what football’s like,” he said.
