Matías Galarza's lightning strike just 65 seconds into the match gave Paraguay a stunning 1-0 victory over Turkey on Friday night, securing the United States' place atop Group D. The goal came before most fans settled into their seats, with Galarza unleashing a left-footed effort from 25 yards for Atlanta United.

Paraguay faced an uphill battle after Miguel Almirón's controversial red card in first-half stoppage time. The dismissal stemmed from a new World Cup rule prohibiting players from covering their mouths during confrontations, applied after Almirón argued with Mert Müldür. Despite playing a man down for over 50 minutes, goalkeeper Orlando Gill delivered crucial saves to preserve the advantage.

Turkey's elimination ends their first World Cup campaign since 2002 in disappointment. They dominated possession but couldn't break through, with Müldür's header rattling the crossbar and Merih Demiral missing late. The loss follows their 2-0 defeat to Australia, leaving them winless in their return to football's biggest stage.

The result sets up a winner-take-all finale between Paraguay and Australia next Thursday for second place in Group D, while the US advance as group winners. Paraguay's resilience under pressure demonstrated their tournament credentials despite the opening loss to the Americans.