Türkiye vs Paraguay: World Cup Clash Preview and Predictions

Türkiye and Paraguay Battle for First World Cup Win

After tough losses in their opening matches, Türkiye and Paraguay face off on Friday at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, each desperate to claim their first victory of the 2026 World Cup.

Türkiye entered the tournament as Group D favorites alongside the U.S. and Australia but stumbled unexpectedly against Australia with a 2–0 defeat. Meanwhile, Paraguay suffered a heavier blow, losing 4–1 to the USMNT. Coach Gustavo Alfaro described that result as a “very painful lesson” for his team, which returned to the World Cup after a 16-year absence.

Both teams sit at zero points, so another loss could dash their hopes of advancing beyond the group stage. The stakes are high as these two squads prepare to clash in California.

Score Prediction: Türkiye to Secure a Solid Win

Despite their recent setback, Türkiye controlled much of their last game, dominating possession and firing 30 shots but failing to convert. Facing a Paraguay defense that conceded four goals in its opener, the Turkish side appears poised to capitalize. Their scoring run before the World Cup, netting in eight straight matches, suggests they will find the net again.

One moment of brilliance from rising star Arda Güler could turn the tide. Paraguay's attack has been inconsistent, scoring just one goal in four of their last six games, which may prove costly against a more clinical opponent.

Historical Context and Team Traits

• Head-to-head: Only one previous meeting, a goalless friendly in 1995.
• Türkiye’s resilience: Since the 2024 Euros, they have always bounced back with a win after a loss.
• Paraguay’s scoring struggles: Difficulty finding multiple goals in a match continues to hinder their progress.

Prediction: Türkiye 2–0 Paraguay

Projected Lineups

Goalkeeper: ÇakirDefenders: Çelik, Demiral, Bardakcı, KadıoğluMidfielders: Yüksek, ÇalhanoğluAttacking Midfielders: Güler, Kökçü, YıldızForward: Gül

Kenan Yıldız, who missed the opening match due to a calf strain, is expected to start after playing 45 minutes as a substitute last game. Deniz Gül might replace Kerem Aktürkoğlu upfront to add fresh energy to the attack.

Goalkeeper: GillDefenders: Cáceres, G. Gómez, Alderete, MaidanaMidfielders: D. Gómez, Cubas, Bobadilla, AlmirónForwards: Enciso, Sanabria

Alexandro Maidana could make his World Cup debut at left-back, replacing Júnior Alonso, who struggled in the previous match. Gustavo Caballero and Ramón Sosa remain sidelined due to injuries, while Mauricio might only feature off the bench despite scoring Paraguay's lone goal against the USMNT.

Match Details

• Location: Santa Clara, United States
• Venue: Levi’s Stadium
• 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 (SLV)

Broadcast Information

Check local listings for additional broadcasters worldwide.