Türkiye Faces Paraguay in Crucial World Cup Clash
Türkiye and Paraguay Battle for First Win at 2026 World Cup
Both Türkiye and Paraguay start the tournament with no points after losing their opening matches, making Friday’s encounter at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara a must-win. Türkiye, favored to top Group D alongside the U.S. and Australia, was stunned by Australia’s 2–0 victory, marking a tough return to the World Cup after 24 years away.
Paraguay endured a heavier defeat, falling 4–1 to the United States in their first match back on the world stage after 16 years. Coach Gustavo Alfaro described the loss as a painful lesson for his team.
With both teams desperate for points, this game carries high stakes. Another loss would severely damage their chances of progressing beyond the group stage.
Score Prediction: Türkiye to Secure a Confident Win
Türkiye showed promising signs despite their loss, controlling possession and firing 30 shots against Australia but lacking finishing. Their recent form suggests they will bounce back, particularly with playmaker Arda Güler capable of sparking moments of brilliance.
Paraguay’s attack has been inconsistent, managing just one goal in four of their last six matches. The skill gap may prove decisive in this matchup.
Previous Encounters
The sides have only met once before—a goalless friendly in 1995—so familiarity is minimal.
Türkiye’s Resilience
Since the 2024 Euros, Türkiye has always followed a defeat with a victory, avoiding consecutive losses since June 2024.
Paraguay’s Offensive Challenges
La Albirroja’s scoring struggles continue under Alfaro, with few multi-goal games recently.
Prediction: Türkiye 2–0 Paraguay
Predicted Starting Lineups
Türkiye (4-2-3-1)
Goalkeeper: ÇakirDefense: Çelik, Demiral, Bardakcı, KadıoğluMidfield: Yüksek, ÇalhanoğluAttackers: Güler, Kökçü, Yıldız, Gül
Kenan Yıldız, who missed the opener due to a calf strain, could return to replace Barış Alper Yılmaz, injecting fresh energy. Deniz Gül may also start over Kerem Aktürkoğlu, who struggled to make an impact last match.
Paraguay (4-4-2)
Goalkeeper: GillDefense: Cáceres, G. Gómez, Alderete, MaidanaMidfield: D. Gómez, Cubas, Bobadilla, AlmirónForwards: Enciso, Sanabria
Injuries rule out Gustavo Caballero and Ramón Sosa again. Júnior Alonso’s poor performance opens the door for Alexandro Maidana’s World Cup debut at left back. Mauricio may be on the bench despite scoring Paraguay’s lone goal last time.
Match Details
- Location: Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, USA
- Date: Friday, June 19 / Saturday, June 20
- Kick-off: 11 p.m. ET / 8 p.m. PT / 4 a.m. BST (June 20)
- Referee: Iván Barton (El Salvador)
Broadcast Information
Check local listings for more broadcaster information worldwide.
