Paraguay stuns Turkey with record 64-second World Cup goal

SANTA CLARA: Paraguay produced one of the most memorable upsets of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Friday, defeating Turkey 1-0 in a thrilling Group D encounter that featured a record-breaking goal, a historic red card and a heroic defensive display.

The South Americans struck just 64 seconds after kickoff when midfielder Matias Galarza unleashed a stunning long-range effort from 25 metres that flew past the Turkish goalkeeper. The goal instantly entered World Cup history books as the fastest scored at the 2026 tournament, surpassing the previous record of 71 seconds set earlier by Morocco’s Ismael Saibari.

For Paraguay, the lightning-fast strike was the perfect response to the criticism that followed their heavy 4-1 defeat against the United States in their opening match. What followed, however, was an even greater test of character.

The contest took a dramatic turn before halftime when Paraguay star Miguel Almiron was shown a red card after a VAR review. The former Premier League midfielder became the first player at the tournament to be sent off under FIFA’s newly introduced mouth-covering rule.

Almiron was judged to have covered his mouth while speaking during a confrontation with Turkey defender Mert Muldur. The regulation, introduced to help combat discriminatory and abusive language on the field, has been one of the most talked-about rule changes at this World Cup.

Reduced to 10 men, Paraguay faced relentless pressure from a Turkish side desperate to keep their World Cup hopes alive. Turkey dominated possession with nearly 79 percent of the ball and launched wave after wave of attacks throughout the second half.

Star players including and repeatedly threatened Paraguay’s goal, but the South American defense stood firm.

Turkey finished with 32 shots but failed to find a breakthrough, leaving coach frustrated yet proud of his players’ effort.

“I’m sad, but I’m also very proud of my players,” Montella said after the match. “They gave everything right up until the final whistle.”

For Galarza, whose early strike proved decisive, the victory was a testament to Paraguay’s resilience and fighting spirit.

“We showed our quality even with one player down,” the 24-year-old said. “Everyone fought for the team.”

The final whistle sparked jubilant celebrations among Paraguayan players and fans as the victory secured progression and ended Turkey’s World Cup campaign. In a tournament already full of surprises, Paraguay’s combination of courage, discipline and history-making moments delivered one of the most dramatic matches yet.