Turkey’s 24-year World Cup return ends in Group-Stage disaster

Turkey’s long-awaited return to the FIFA World Cup ended in disappointment on Saturday (June 20) as a 1-0 defeat to 10-man Paraguay confirmed their elimination from the tournament after just two group-stage matches.

The Group D encounter at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara proved decisive for both sides. Paraguay secured a vital victory thanks to an early strike from Matías Galarza, while Turkey became the second nation, after Haiti, to be knocked out of the expanded 48-team World Cup.

Turkey suffered a major setback just 64 seconds into the match when Galarza capitalized on a swift attacking move to give Paraguay the lead. Despite dominating possession and creating numerous chances throughout the game, the Turkish side failed to find an equalizer.

Statistics reflected Turkey’s control, with Vincenzo Montella’s men enjoying 72 percent possession and registering 24 shots. However, poor finishing and a lack of composure in front of goal proved costly, as Arda Güler, Hakan Çalhanoğlu and Kenan Yıldız were unable to break down Paraguay’s disciplined defense.

Paraguay’s task became even more difficult before halftime when experienced midfielder Miguel Almirón was shown a straight red card for violating FIFA’s newly introduced on-field conduct regulations. Reduced to 10 men for the entire second half, the South Americans were forced into a defensive battle but held firm under relentless Turkish pressure.

The result leaves Turkey rooted to the bottom of Group D without a point from two matches. Hosts United States have already secured qualification for the knockout stage with six points, while Paraguay and Australia each have three.

Even if Turkey win their final group match, they can reach only three points. With Paraguay and Australia set to face each other in the last round, at least one of those teams will finish above Turkey, eliminating any mathematical chance of progression.

Returning to the World Cup after a 24-year absence, Turkey arrived with high expectations and a squad packed with emerging talent. Instead, their campaign has ended in frustration, with many observers already labeling them one of the tournament’s biggest disappointments.