How Miguel Almirón’s Red Card Backfired — Paraguay Stun Turkey and Clear Path for USMNT

SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA — Sometimes the biggest moments in football come from the most unexpected places.

Miguel Almirón, usually known for his dazzling dribbles and infectious smile, made history for all the wrong reasons on Saturday night. The former Newcastle star became the first player at a World Cup to be sent off for covering his mouth during an altercation with an opponent.

But what should have been Turkey’s golden opportunity turned into one of the biggest shocks of the 2026 tournament.

The Dismissal

In first-half stoppage time, with the score still 1-0 to Paraguay, Almirón and Turkey’s Barış Alper Yılmaz got into a heated exchange.

Almirón instinctively covered his mouth while responding — a gesture that, after a VAR review, was deemed worthy of a straight red card by the referee.

Down to 10 men before halftime, most teams would have collapsed. Not this Paraguay side.

A Masterclass in Defiance

Matías Galarza had already given Paraguay a dream start in just the second minute, latching onto a pass from the brilliant Julio Enciso and firing a low shot into the bottom corner from 20 yards.

From that moment on, it became a story of incredible resilience.

Even with a numerical disadvantage, Paraguay refused to sit deep. They defended with intelligence, pressed selectively, and used every ounce of experience to frustrate Turkey.

Orlando Gill in goal was outstanding, making several crucial saves, particularly from Abdülkerim Bardakçı and Can Uzun.

Turkey dominated possession after the break, but they lacked the cutting edge to break down Paraguay’s compact shape.

In the end, the 1-0 scoreline stood.

Turkey Eliminated, Path Opens for USMNT

With this result, Turkey is officially eliminated from the 2026 World Cup after just two matches.

For a team that arrived with genuine ambitions of reaching the knockout stages, this is a bitter disappointment.

For the United States, however, the picture has suddenly become much clearer.

With Paraguay’s victory, the USMNT now sits in a very strong position in Group D. Having already beaten Paraguay 4-1 and Australia 2-0, the Americans are in control.

Even a draw against Turkey in the final group game would almost certainly be enough to secure top spot and a favorable matchup in the Round of 16.

Mauricio Pochettino’s team no longer needs a heroic performance in the last match — they simply need to be professional.

The Bigger Picture

This was more than just a 1-0 win for Paraguay.

It was a tactical and mental masterclass — a reminder that heart, organization, and discipline can still overcome talent and numbers on the biggest stage.

And for the United States, it was the perfect result.

Now they head into their final group game against Turkey with confidence, control, and a clear path to the knockout stages.

The statement has been made.

The real test of ambition is coming.