Turkey and Paraguay are competing for their first victory in Group D of the 2026 World Cup. Miguel Almiron from Paraguay is noted for being the first player of the tournament to be sent off for covering his mouth while speaking to an opponent.

Paraguay quickly took the lead with midfielder Matias Galarza scoring just two minutes in with a powerful shot from outside the penalty area. Turkey defender Mert Muldur nearly equalized before halftime but saw his header hit both the crossbar and post.

The USMNT has already defeated Australia 2-0 earlier in the day. If Turkey does not beat Paraguay, the USMNT will secure first place in the group.

Watch: FS1, Fubo

Live Updates:

45+3’: Turkey 0-1 Paraguay – Miguel Almiron has been sent off for covering his mouth during a confrontational situation with a Turkish player, leading to a red card as a result of a new tournament rule.

45+1’: Turkey 0-1 Paraguay – Referee Ivan Arcides Barton Cisneros from El Salvador is overseeing a heated contest. As six minutes of added time began, an altercation occurred between Yuksek and Pitta, leading to a VAR check.

36’: Turkey 0-1 Paraguay – Turkey had a close call as Mert Muldur’s header struck the crossbar and post. Paraguay remains fortunate not to be equalized.

Juan Jose Caceres from Dynamo Moscow and Kenan Yildiz from Juventus are in a fierce battle. Yildiz, a promising talent, aims to spearhead Turkey’s attack. The smaller Caceres defends resolutely despite his size.

The game is open and engaging, with Paraguay sitting deep in defense and counterattacking through the quick Julio Enciso. Turkey counters sharply, prompting Turkish journalists to shout in frustration.

Paraguay has looked comfortable playing without the ball, a trait demonstrated in their wins over Argentina and Brazil in 2024. However, they need better passing sequences to threaten Turkey’s goal.

The hydration break allowed players momentary rest, though fans remain engrossed in the dynamic pace of the game.

Turkey maintains 78% possession, partly due to their early deficit. They rely on Arda Guler and Kenan Yildiz to create opportunities, but face persistent challenges in cracking Paraguay’s defense.

The Turkish fans’ cheers echo, yet whether they meet expectations as a golden generation of players is yet unanswered.