Top News

Turkey’s World Cup journey came to an abrupt end following a 1-0 defeat to Paraguay, despite dominating possession and unleashing an astonishing 33 attempts on goal. Former Newcastle United midfielder Miguel Almiron made headlines for the wrong reasons, becoming the first player in the tournament to be sent off for covering his mouth during an on-field exchange. Paraguay, however, held their ground to claim a result that ended Turkey’s campaign.

Paraguay capitalised on Turkey’s wastefulness in front of goal, taking the lead just 64 seconds into the match when Matias Galarza struck from outside the penalty box — the fastest goal recorded in this World Cup. Although Turkey largely controlled the game, they were unable to overturn the early deficit.

The encounter took a bizarre twist just before half-time. During stoppage time, Almiron received a straight red card after a VAR check for an altercation with Turkish defender Mert Muldur. Referee Ivan Barton of El Salvador enforced a new tournament regulation intended to stop players from concealing their mouths during arguments or discussions on the pitch.

Even with a man advantage for most of the second half, Turkey could not find an equaliser and were officially knocked out of the competition with one group match still to play.

The statistics underline their frustration. Vincenzo Montella’s side registered 33 shots and commanded 78.5 per cent of possession but rarely forced Paraguay goalkeeper Orlando Gill into serious action, with only one of their first 12 efforts hitting the target.

Turkey’s Mert Muldur came close to levelling when his deflected header clipped the crossbar, while substitute Deniz Gul missed two golden chances in the closing stages as Paraguay defended resolutely following Almiron’s dismissal.

This inefficiency proved fatal for Turkey’s hopes. Over their losses to Australia and Paraguay, they mustered 62 shots without scoring once — a record-breaking drought. Opta confirmed it as the highest number of attempts without a goal over any two-game span in World Cup history since 1966.

For Paraguay, the win provided a crucial lifeline. After suffering a heavy loss to the United States in their opening fixture, the South American side kept their qualification prospects alive with a resilient performance.

Looking ahead, Paraguay will face Australia in their final group encounter knowing progress to the last 32 remains possible. Turkey, on the other hand, will reflect on a campaign that began with high expectations but ended in disappointment. Despite their aggressive attacking play and extended spells in control, their inability to convert chances sealed an early exit from football’s biggest stage.