Paraguay defeats Turkey 1-0 in World Cup group stage match

On June 20, 2026, Paraguay defeated Turkey 1-0 in a World Cup match held in Santa Clara. The only goal was scored by Galarza in the 2nd minute of the game. Despite playing with ten men for part of the match, Paraguay held on to secure their first three points of the tournament. The match saw a notable disciplinary incident involving Almiron, who became the first player to be sent off for covering his mouth while speaking to an opponent. Following this result, Paraguay is tied with Australia on three points and will compete for a spot in the knockout stage. Turkey, currently with zero points, must win their next match against the already qualified United States and rely on other favorable results to remain in contention. The team led by Gustavo Alfaro remains in a strong position, while Vincenzo Montella's Turkish side faces a difficult path forward.