GALARZA’S STRIKE SENDS TURKEY CRASHING OUT OF WORLD CUP

Turkey’s World Cup campaign came to a disappointing end as Matias Galarza’s early strike earned Paraguay a 1-0 victory in the San Francisco Bay Area, securing a second straight win for Los Guaranies and eliminating the Crescent Stars with a game to spare.

Matias Galarza stunned Turkey after just 65 seconds, capitalising on a misplaced pass before firing beyond Ugurcan Cakir to score what proved to be the decisive goal.

Turkey responded strongly and created a host of chances throughout the contest.

Arda Guler fired over, Kenan Yildiz tested Orlando Gill, while Mert Muldur came agonisingly close when his header struck both the crossbar and post before staying out.

Paraguay’s task became even tougher just before half-time when Miguel Almiron was sent off, forcing Los Guaranies to play the entire second half with 10 men.

Despite their numerical advantage, Turkey failed to find a breakthrough.

Deniz Gul, Can Uzun and Merih Demiral all went close, but Gill produced a composed display in goal to preserve Paraguay’s lead.

The result leaves Turkey without a point from their opening two matches and eliminates them from the tournament despite creating enough opportunities across both games to earn a better fate.

Paraguay, meanwhile, moved into a strong position to qualify from Group D and will face Australia in their final group match.