Turkey Eliminated from 2026 World Cup After 0-1 Loss to Paraguay
Turkey's national football team was eliminated from the 2026 FIFA World Cup group stage after a 0-1 defeat to Paraguay in San Francisco. The loss ended a 24-year World Cup drought for Turkey, triggering widespread shame and frustration. Stars Arda Güler and Hakan Çalhanoğlu apologized to the nation, citing inability to score despite 65 shots across two matches. Coach Vincenzo Montella defended his tactics, while fans expressed anger on social media over mismanaged expectations and poor finishing.
Cross-source coverage
Wire timeline
Turkey: Arda Güler Bitter After 2026 World Cup Elimination
Arda Güler, Real Madrid's attacking midfielder, expressed deep disappointment after Turkey was eliminated from the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Despite a 3-2 victory against the United States in their final group match, the result was insufficient to advance. Güler, who had a blank season with Real Madrid, apologized to the Turkish people and openly accepted criticism for his and his teammates' poor performances throughout the tournament. In a media statement, he acknowledged, 'I didn't play well; none of us played well... I am open to criticism.' The article highlights the young player's frustration and reflective tone following the early exit, marking a continued difficult period for him after an unproductive club season.
Foot Mercato : Info Transferts Football - Actu Foot TransfertArda Güler: 'I didn't play well, the criticism is justified' after Turkey's World Cup exit
Turkey bid farewell to the 2026 World Cup with a 3-2 victory over co-host United States in their final Group D match, but the win could not mask the team's disappointing campaign. Real Madrid's Arda Güler, who scored Turkey's opening goal and became the youngest Turkish player to score at a World Cup, said the criticism was justified, admitting he and the team did not play well. Defender Kaan Ayhan, scorer of the winner, said they could not celebrate much and would be their own harshest critics. Midfielder Orkun Gökçü said pride and honor were at stake but the team needed self-criticism. Coach Vincenzo Montella, who made seven changes to the lineup, defended his players and expressed optimism for the future, saying Turkey would not wait another 24 years to return to a World Cup. The Turkish press described the result as a 'farewell with victory,' reflecting mixed feelings of pride and frustration.
FútbolTurkey Coach Montella Clashes with Media After World Cup Elimination
Turkey has been eliminated from the 2026 World Cup after losing their first two group stage matches, marking one of the tournament's biggest disappointments. The team, coached by Vincenzo Montella, faces heavy criticism from Turkish media. Ahead of their final group match against the United States, Montella opened his press conference by attacking journalists for their negative coverage. He declared that he will not resign, stating he retains the full support of the Turkish Football Federation and still possesses the same determination and energy. Montella emphasized his unwavering commitment to the team despite calls for his dismissal.
Foot Mercato : Info Transferts Football - Actu Foot TransfertEarly World Cup Exit for Turkey: In Panic Mode
Turkey's national football team has been eliminated from the 2026 World Cup after two shocking defeats to Australia and Paraguay, despite high expectations as the 'golden generation' led by stars Arda Güler and Kenan Yıldız. The team recorded 62 shots and over 70% possession without scoring a single goal, while conceding three from six opponent shots on target. Coach Vincenzo Montella and the Turkish Football Federation president called it bad luck, but the article suggests inability rather than misfortune. President Erdogan's pre-tournament video message, referencing Turkey's 2002 semi-final run, only heightened expectations. With only its third-ever World Cup appearance, Turkey's early exit has left fans bewildered and sparked calls for the coach's dismissal.
taz.de - taz.deTurkey's Early World Cup Exit: A Nation in Panic Mode
Turkey's early elimination from the 2026 World Cup after two shocking defeats has left the football-mad nation in disbelief. Arriving with high expectations as a 'golden generation' led by stars like Real Madrid's Arda Güler and Juventus' Kenan Yıldız, Turkey failed to score a single goal despite 62 shots and over 70% possession across two matches. They lost to Australia and then to Paraguay, who played half the match with a man down after a controversial red card. The team, making only its third World Cup appearance, was expected to be a dark horse. Experts are calling for coach Vincenzo Montella's dismissal. President Erdoğan's pre-tournament motivational speech recalling the 2002 semi-finals amplified nationwide hopes, making the early exit all the more devastating.
taz.de - taz.deTurkey's World Cup Elimination Triggers Domestic Outrage; Football Association Had Promised Villas for Advancement
Turkey's national football team was eliminated from the World Cup group stage after two consecutive losses, 0-2 to Australia and 0-1 to Paraguay, despite dominating both matches with 62 total shots and no goals. The humiliating performance, their first World Cup appearance in 24 years, sparked widespread anger and mockery on Turkish social media. Journalist Ali Çağatay sarcastically suggested the players should walk 10,000 km back to Istanbul. A commentator criticized the Football Association's promise of a vacation villa to each player if they advanced, saying they should stay abroad. Real Madrid star Güler apologized, calling it a 'curse.' Captain Çalhanoğlu faced calls to step down, and coach Montella acknowledged the rare failure. Reports indicate the Turkish Football Federation may undergo a major overhaul, with legend Arda Turan potentially becoming sporting director.
虎扑 - 足球Turkey's 62-Shot Goalless Drought Marks Worst World Cup Campaign
Turkey was eliminated from the 2026 World Cup after failing to score in two matches despite taking 62 shots, the worst such record since 1966. Their expected goals (xG) was only 3.5, highlighting poor shot selection—over half from outside the box. Star players Arda Guler, Kenan Yildiz, and Hakan Calhanoglu accounted for 34 of the efforts. Coach Vincenzo Montella, a former Roma and Italy manager, is expected to be sacked. The team's only prior notable World Cup run was a semi-final appearance in 2002. The Athletic analysis frames the campaign as a historic underperformance, noting Turkey's brief tournament survival was only two and a half hours longer than debutant Haiti.
Soccer - The AthleticTurkey need another rebrand after failing to take flight at World Cup
Turkey (Türkiye) has been eliminated from the 2026 World Cup after two consecutive losses to Australia and Paraguay, despite a dominant performance with 62 total shots without scoring — a World Cup record for most shots without a goal in two matches. Paraguay scored the tournament's fastest goal (65 seconds) from Matías Galarza and held on despite playing a man down for over a half after Miguel Almirón's red card. The article revisits Turkey's 2022 rebrand to Türkiye, partly motivated by President Erdoğan's dislike for the bird association. Star player Arda Güler expressed sorrow, and manager Vincenzo Montella suggested the long absence from major tournaments may have contributed to the team's struggles. The piece is part of The Guardian's Football Daily newsletter and includes match previews and reader letters on refereeing names and multilingual broadcasting.
Football | The GuardianTears at the World Cup: Turkey Eliminated by Paraguay
Turkey has been eliminated from the 2026 FIFA World Cup following a match against Paraguay. The article, published by Bild Sport on June 20, 2026, highlights the emotional aftermath, with players and fans in tears. The report includes a video summary of the match's key moments, sourced from MagentaTV. The elimination marks a dramatic end to Turkey's World Cup campaign, with Paraguay advancing at their expense.
BILD - SportFear of Failure – The Reasons Behind Turkey's World Cup Drama
Turkey's early exit from the 2026 World Cup after two goalless games has reopened old wounds. Despite dominating possession and registering 65 shots, the team failed to score, losing 0-1 to Paraguay after an earlier 0-2 loss to Australia. Coach Vincenzo Montella attributed the defeat to bad luck and fate, while captain Hakan Calhanoglu and midfielder Arda Güler apologized to fans emotionally. The match saw a controversial moment when Paraguay's Miguel Almirón received a red card under a new FIFA rule for covering his mouth while speaking with an opponent. Former player Hamit Altintop suggested the team could not handle the pressure of high expectations. Players including Mert Müldür, Kenan Yildiz, and Can Uzun were seen in tears after the final whistle.
Nachrichten - WELTTurkey Eliminated from 2026 World Cup Without Scoring a Goal
Turkey has been eliminated from the 2026 World Cup after losing 1-0 to Paraguay in a must-win match, following an earlier defeat to Australia. The team, considered a potential surprise with Real Madrid star Arda Güler, failed to score in either game, managing zero goals in two losses. The decisive goal came from Paraguay's Galarza within the first two minutes. Turkey's best chance was a Mert Müldür header that hit both the crossbar and post. Coach Vincenzo Montella defended his team, emphasizing their possession and attacking play, but acknowledged that critical moments decided the matches. The elimination marks a bitter end for a generation that aimed high but leaves the tournament goalless.
FútbolArda Güler Apologizes to Turkish Fans After World Cup Group Stage Exit
Following Turkey's elimination from the group stage of a major tournament (likely the 2026 FIFA World Cup), Real Madrid star Arda Güler issued a public apology to Turkish fans. The 21-year-old midfielder, who is considered one of Turkey's most prominent players, addressed the nation expressing shame over the early exit. Turkey failed to advance past the group stage, leading to widespread disappointment among supporters. Güler's emotional statement was captured by MagentaTV and reported by Bild Sport on June 20, 2026. The apology reflects the high expectations placed on the Turkish national team and Güler's role as a key figure.
BILD - SportTurkish Press Rips Team After Goalless World Cup Elimination
Turkey's national football team has been eliminated from the 2026 World Cup after a 0-1 defeat against Paraguay, following an earlier loss to Australia. The Turkish press reacted with furious criticism, labeling the performance a 'true nightmare'. Key newspapers like Hürriyet, Fanatik, and Takvim highlighted the team's failure to score a single goal in two matches despite 80% possession and 62 shots. Goalkeeper Uğurcan Çakır was singled out for poor performances. International media outlets, including La Gazzetta dello Sport, De Telegraaf, and The Guardian, characterized the outcome as a disaster, noting Turkey's inability to capitalize on a numerical advantage after Paraguay's red card. The team exited before its final group match, leaving millions of fans in deep sorrow.
BILD - SportTurkish TV Captures Arda Güler's First Words After World Cup Elimination
Turkey's national team has been eliminated from the 2026 World Cup following a 0-1 defeat against Paraguay, adding to their opening loss against Australia (2-0). The elimination has shocked the country, as Turkey was considered the group favorite. Players have been heavily criticized by media, former coaches, and ex-internationals. Turkish public television captured Real Madrid star Arda Güler's reaction immediately after the final whistle. The camera showed him looking at the sky and saying, 'Oh my God. Why?' The emotional moment shows the player's dismay and has gone viral on social media. Several other players were seen crying on the pitch. The article highlights the unexpected early exit of Vincenzo Montella's team from the tournament.
FútbolTurkey's World Cup Exit Draws Harsh Criticism for Naivety Despite Star Talent
Turkey's early World Cup exit after a loss to Paraguay has sparked strong criticism from former national player Halil Altıntop. Despite possessing high individual quality among its players, the team was undone by simple mistakes, a lack of tactical organization, and what Altıntop called an 'unsurpassed naivety' in the decisive match. The analysis from Die Welt highlights a disconnect between Turkey's promising roster and their poor performance on the international stage. The premature elimination marks a major disappointment for Turkish football fans and raises questions about the team's preparation and leadership going forward.
Nachrichten - WELTKerem: We didn't overestimate our level, we just didn't perform to our standard
After a 0-1 defeat to Paraguay that eliminated Turkey from the World Cup, forward Kerem Aktürkoğlu expressed deep disappointment in a post-match interview. He acknowledged the team's failure to meet high expectations despite significant effort, citing an inability to convert scoring chances. Kerem defended the team's quality and denied overestimating their level, pointing to their prior European Championship quarterfinal run. He addressed a controversial red card where an opponent covered his mouth while speaking to a Turkish player, supporting the referee's decision after VAR review. The player emphasized the team's pride in ending a 24-year World Cup drought and vowed to rebound in future tournaments including the European Championship and Nations League A. He urged continued support from fans despite the setback.
虎扑 - 足球Turkey Eliminated from 2026 World Cup After Two Games, Commentator Sympathizes
Turkey's long-awaited return to the World Cup after 24 years has ended in heartbreak. Following a 0-1 defeat against Paraguay in San Francisco, the Turkish national team has been mathematically eliminated from the group stage after just two matches. An entire nation is left devastated as the team is forced to pack up and go home. A commentator from MagentaTV expressed deep sympathy, asking 'What did Turkey do wrong?' as the dream of progressing in the tournament was abruptly shattered. The result marks a bitter end to what was supposed to be a celebratory comeback on the world stage.
BILD - SportTurkish National Team Apologizes for World Cup Elimination After Two Consecutive Defeats
The Turkish national football team has publicly apologized to the Turkish people following two consecutive losses that have led to their elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup. After losing 0-1 to Paraguay in Santa Clara, California, in Group D, and failing to score in both matches—including a 0-2 defeat to Australia in their opener—players expressed deep shame and disappointment. Real Madrid midfielder Arda Güler stated that despite playing for top clubs, the team failed to perform, calling the lack of goals unacceptable. Captain Hakan Çalhanoglu, while disappointed, urged support for younger players. Coach Vincenzo Montella attributed the losses to bad luck, noting the team dominated play but conceded on rare opponent chances. Goalkeeper Ugurcan Çakır also apologized, vowing to keep striving for national pride. The team's elimination contrasts sharply with Turkey's historic 2002 World Cup run, where they finished third. Former coach Senol Günes criticized the team's lack of organization and determination.
FútbolTurkey's World Cup Hopes Dashed with Loss to Paraguay; Güler Apologizes, Calhanoglu Faces Last Chance
Turkey's World Cup qualifying dreams suffered an early blow as Vincenzo Montella's team lost their second group match 0-1 to Paraguay, despite playing with a numerical advantage for much of the game. The defeat leaves Turkey in a precarious position. After the match, young star Arda Güler expressed embarrassment and apologized to fans, while veteran Hakan Çalhanoğlu reflected on the emotional toll, hinting that this could be his last World Cup campaign. The report, from Kicker, focuses on the players' emotional state and the team's disappointment.
kicker Fußball News2026 World Cup: Turkey's Disappointing Early Exit After 24-Year Absence
Turkey has been eliminated from the 2026 FIFA World Cup after losing their first two group matches, failing to score a single goal despite dominating possession and attempts. They lost 2-0 to Australia and 1-0 to Paraguay, the latter despite playing over half the match with a numerical advantage. Turkey had 62 total shots across both games but converted none, with only 12 on target. Coach Vincenzo Montella expressed frustration, calling the finishing 'a one-in-50-match event happening twice.' Players including Arda Guler and captain Hakan Calhanoglu apologized to the Turkish people, with Calhanoglu urging support for the team's younger players. The defeat marks a bitter return for Turkey, who qualified for the World Cup for the first time in 24 years.
Foot Mercato : Info Transferts Football - Actu Foot Transfert