After back-to-back defeats, Türkiye have been eliminated from the World Cup, joining Haiti as two of the earliest exits, Yankee Scores reports.
Regarded as underdogs with so much to prove, Türkiye have failed to score a goal despite a total of 62 attempts, which is the most efforts of any team without a goal in any two-match span in the competition’s history, per Sky Sports.
Despite their numerical advantage over 10-man Paraguay for the entire second half, Turkey, despite enjoying 79 per cent of the possession, could not find the back of the net, and Paraguay held on to inflict a second defeat on Türkiye.
Matias Galarza put Paraguay ahead as early as the second minute with a stunning effort as the South American side protected the slim lead for the remainder of the game. With 12 corners, 5 shots on target and 15 shots off target, it was a frustrating night for Türkiye.
Guler Ashamed of Results
“We should have won these games, so apologies to the Turkish people,” reflected midfielder Arda Guler afterwards.
We feel ashamed. We apologise to all our people. We play for enormous clubs, and we should reflect that on the pitch. We haven’t scored any goals in two matches.
I will do everything I can throughout my career with the national team to forget this tournament. We apologise to our people.”
Montella Sad but Proud
However, the Turkish coach Vincenzo Montella said he is proud of the performance of his players.
“I’m sad, but I’m also very proud of my players. They gave absolutely everything right up until the final whistle. That’s what football is like. We came very close to equalizing, but you also need to accept situations like these.
Turkey will face table leaders the United States on Thursday in their dead rubber final group match in Los Angeles.
“It’s unforgettable,” scorer Galarza said. “This is the most beautiful stage in the world, playing among the best.” “I hope that Paraguay is happy.”
Turkey will face the group leaders USMNT in a dead-rubber final group match in Los Angeles on Thursday.
