Turkey produced an impressive qualifying campaign to secure their place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. They advanced through the playoffs with consecutive victories over Romania and Kosovo and followed that up with friendly wins against Venezuela and North Macedonia before the tournament.
Everything appeared to be in place for a strong World Cup campaign.
However, Turkey failed to deliver in their opening match against Australia. Defensive errors proved costly, while the attacking unit led by rising star Arda Güler struggled to make an impact. As a result, a 0-2 defeat was fully deserved.
Paraguay also endured a difficult start, suffering a heavy 1-4 loss to the United States. Consequently, the South American side cannot afford another defeat if they hope to remain in contention for a place in the knockout rounds.
One positive for Paraguay is their recent record against European opposition. Their 2-1 victory over Greece in March highlighted their ability to compete effectively against teams from UEFA.
With both sides losing their opening matches, avoiding defeat may become the primary objective, making a draw a realistic outcome.
Recent Form & Head-to-Head
Turkey
- Lost 0-2 to Australia in the opening World Cup match.
- Won four consecutive matches before the tournament.
- Qualified through playoff victories over Romania and Kosovo.
Paraguay
- Lost 1-4 to the United States in their World Cup opener.
- Need points to keep qualification hopes alive.
- Have performed competitively against European opponents in recent fixtures.
Team News
Turkey
No major injury or suspension concerns reported.
Paraguay
Expected to have a full-strength squad available.
Predicted Lineups
Turkey
Bayındır; Muldur, Demiral, Söyüncü, Kadıoğlu; Çalhanoğlu, Özcan; Aktürkoğlu, Güler, Yıldız; Aktürkoğlu.
Paraguay
Gill; Alonso, Alderete, Gustavo Gómez, Cáceres; Ojeda, Bobadilla, Andres, Galarza; Enciso, Ávalos.
Betting Analysis
Asian Handicap: Turkey -0.5
Turkey enter as slight favorites, but the half-goal handicap looks demanding considering their disappointing display against Australia.
Paraguay have shown resilience against European teams and are likely to approach this match with maximum determination. Given the circumstances, backing Paraguay on the handicap appears to offer value.
Recommended Pick: Paraguay +0.5
Over/Under Goals: 2.5
Turkey failed to score in their opening match, while Paraguay have not been prolific in recent games.
Three of Paraguay’s last four matches have seen them score no more than two goals, and the pressure associated with this must-win encounter could lead to a cautious tactical approach.
Recommended Pick: Under 2.5 Goals
Cards Market
Turkey average approximately 3.1 cards per match across their last ten games, while Paraguay average around 1.2.
Although the match is important, recent disciplinary trends suggest a moderate rather than explosive card count.
Recommended Pick: At least 4 total cards.
Predicted Outcome
Both teams desperately need points after opening-round defeats. Turkey may enjoy more possession, but Paraguay possess enough defensive organization and counterattacking quality to make life difficult.
A tight and cautious contest appears likely.
Recommended Bets
- Paraguay +0.5 (Asian Handicap)
- Under 2.5 Goals
- Over 3.5 Total Cards
Predicted Score
Turkey 1-1 Paraguay