Türkiye vs Paraguay: World Cup Clash Preview and Lineup Insights

Türkiye and Paraguay Face Off for First Win

Both Türkiye and Paraguay suffered defeats in their opening matches of the 2026 World Cup and now must secure a victory to keep their knockout stage hopes alive. Their upcoming match on Friday at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara is a crucial battle between two teams eager to avoid an early exit.

Türkiye entered the tournament as Group D favorites, sharing the group with the U.S. and Australia. Returning to the World Cup after a 24-year absence, they stumbled in their opener, losing 2–0 to Australia. Paraguay endured a heavier loss, falling 4–1 to the USMNT, a painful blow for a squad that has not competed on this stage for 16 years.

With zero points each, there is little room for error. Both sides know another defeat will likely end their tournament run, adding significant pressure to their meeting in California.

Score Prediction: Türkiye to Edge Paraguay

Türkiye is expected to rebound strongly. Despite the loss to Australia, they dominated possession and fired 30 shots, lacking only the finishing touch. Scoring had been consistent for Türkiye, who found the net in eight straight games before the World Cup opener. A single moment of brilliance from Arda Güler could tip the scales.

Paraguay's defense was exposed last match, conceding four goals. Their attack often struggles with consistency, scoring just once in four of their last six matches. This individual talent gap may decide the contest.

The two teams have met only once before, a goalless friendly in 1995, so familiarity is minimal. Türkiye has a pattern of bouncing back from defeats, winning every time after a loss since the 2024 Euros. Paraguay’s offense remains unpredictable under coach Gustavo Alfaro.

Prediction: Türkiye 2–0 Paraguay

Türkiye’s Expected Lineup

Juventus star Kenan Yıldız could return to the starting XI after recovering from a calf strain. He played 45 minutes off the bench last match and may replace Barış Alper Yılmaz to add energy upfront. Deniz Gül might also get a chance, swapping in for Kerem Aktürkoğlu, who struggled to impact the game despite taking two shots.

Predicted formation (4-2-3-1): Çakir; Çelik, Demiral, Bardakcı, Kadıoğlu; Yüksek, Çalhanoğlu; Güler, Kökçü, Yıldız; Gül.

Paraguay’s Lineup Considerations

Coach Gustavo Alfaro faces injury concerns. Gustavo Caballero remains sidelined with a muscle problem, and Ramón Sosa is doubtful due to ankle discomfort. Defender Júnior Alonso struggled previously, possibly paving the way for Alexandro Maidana to make his World Cup debut at left back. Mauricio may again be limited to a substitute role despite scoring Paraguay’s lone goal in their opener.

Predicted formation (4-4-2): Gill; Cáceres, G. Gómez, Alderete, Maidana; D. Gómez, Cubas, Bobadilla, Almirón; Enciso, Sanabria.

Match Details and Viewing Information

• Venue: Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, United States
• Date and Time: Friday, June 19 / Saturday, June 20, 11 p.m. ET / 8 p.m. PT / 4 a.m. BST
• Referee: Iván Barton (El Salvador)

Broadcast Information

• United States: Fox Sports, fuboTV, Telemundo, Telemundo Deportes En Vivo, FOX One
• Mexico: ViX Mexico
• Canada: TSN+, TSN1, TSN3, TSN4, TSN5, RDS, RDS App
• United Kingdom: ITV1, STV, ITVX, STV Player

Fans worldwide can check local broadcasters for full coverage details.