On Friday, ten-man Paraguay advanced with a close 1-0 win over Turkiye while the match also helped United States secure the No 1 spot of the group D.
The loss put an end to Turkiye’s bid to make it into the knockout stage, as they became the second team to fall after Haiti.
Paraguay had a dream start as they opened the game by scoring a goal by Matias Galarza.
Turkiye goalkeeper Ugurcan Cakir was taken by surprise by his powerful low throw from a distance and Paraguay secured a lead. They maintained this lead throughout the game.
Paraguay forward Miguel Almiron had a historic moment when he got sent off the field for covering his mouth in an on-field confrontation. This is the first time in World Cup history that a player has been sent off the field for that offence.
The former Newcastle United attacker was given a red card after he appeared to direct a comment towards Turkiye defender Mert Muldur, while trying to cover his mouth in first-half of the game.
Turkiye’s numerical advantage could not be translated into goals as they were unable to work up a charge against a determined Paraguay defence for much of the second half.
They had their best opportunity late in the game when Deniz Gul found himself in a good position in the 88th minute but Paraguay keeper Orlando Gill saved the attempted goal.
The match had an exciting finish with Turkiye pressing for an equaliser in the dying moments.
The end of the match resulted in a very disappointing evening for Turkiye as their World Cup aspirations were finished.
Paraguay, however, have ensured that they are still in World Cup and will fight for their place in the knockout matches.
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