Washington: The decisive Group C clash at the San Francisco Bay Area Stadium saw Paraguay secure a crucial victory thanks to an early strike from Matias Galarza, while co-host United States officially booked its place in the knockout stage as group winners.

Turkey’s hopes suffered an immediate setback when Galarza found the net in just the second minute of the match, giving Paraguay an early advantage that ultimately proved enough to secure all three points.

Paraguay’s task became more difficult in first-half stoppage time when midfielder Miguel Almiron was shown a red card, reducing his side to 10 men. Despite the numerical disadvantage, Paraguay produced a resilient defensive display to withstand relentless Turkish pressure throughout the remainder of the contest.

Turkey dominated possession with 79 per cent of the ball and created numerous opportunities, registering more than 20 attempts on goal. However, a lack of finishing proved costly as they failed to break through Paraguay’s determined defence.

The result leaves Paraguay level on three points with Australia after two matches, while Turkey remains without a point and is mathematically eliminated from the competition with one group game still to play.

Meanwhile, the United States advanced to the knockout rounds as Group C winners with six points from two matches. The co-host nation has already secured top spot in the standings through its head-to-head advantage, ensuring progression to the next stage regardless of the final round of group fixtures.

Paraguay’s victory keeps its qualification hopes alive heading into the final group match, while Turkey’s World Cup journey comes to an early and disappointing conclusion.