In a night that began with high hopes for the Turkish national team, a single strike from Paraguay’s Matías Galarza turned the tide, sending Turkey packing from the 2026 World Cup. The 64‑second goal, the quickest of the tournament, not only sealed a 1‑0 defeat but also underscored the fine margins that separate glory from disappointment on football’s biggest stage.
How the Group D showdown unfolded
Group D’s final round of matches took place in two venues on the West Coast of the United States. While the United States comfortably clinched the top spot after a 2‑0 win over Australia in Seattle, Turkey faced a determined Paraguay side at the San Francisco Bay Area Stadium. The Turkish side, coached by Italian‑born Vincenzo Montaella, entered the game after a 4‑1 drubbing by the United States, needing at least a win to stay alive.
Paraguay, still smarting from an opening defeat, came out aggressively. Within 64 seconds, Galarza received a ball just outside the box{