Paraguay Wins 1-0 Down a Player, Gives USA Group Lead

Sometimes the biggest victories come when the odds are stacked against you, and Paraguay just proved it on soccer's biggest stage.

Matias Galarza needed just 65 seconds to score the fastest goal of the 2026 World Cup, sending a stunning left-footed shot from 25 yards out into the net against Turkey in Santa Clara, California. The Atlanta United midfielder was making his first start of the tournament after sitting out Paraguay's opening match.

But the real test came later when Paraguay lost midfielder Miguel Almiron to a red card before halftime. He was ejected under a new World Cup rule banning players from covering their mouths during confrontations, leaving his team to defend their slim lead with only 10 players for more than half the match.

Turkey threw everything forward, dominating possession and creating chance after chance. Goalkeeper Orlando Gill became Paraguay's hero, making save after crucial save to keep his team ahead.

He stopped a tricky deflection from Merih Demiral early in the second half, then denied a long-range blast from Abdulkerim Bardakci. Late in the match, Gill stuffed Can Uzun from close range, and the rebound sailed harmlessly wide.

The Ripple Effect

Paraguay's resilience did more than earn three points. Their victory guaranteed the United States will win Group D, giving the host nation a favorable path in the knockout rounds.

The win also eliminated Turkey from advancing despite entering as tournament favorites. For Paraguay, it was redemption after a tough 4-1 opening loss to the Americans.

Coach Gustavo Alfaro's decision to start Galarza paid off immediately, and his team's refusal to collapse when down a player showed the kind of fighting spirit that makes tournaments special. Paraguay now faces Australia on Thursday with second place in the group on the line.

When you're outnumbered but refuse to be outworked, amazing things can happen.