Paraguay and Turquía meet in Group D of the 2026 World Cup at Estadio Akron in Guadalajara, with both sides eyeing a crucial step toward the knockout rounds. For Paraguay, ranked 51st, this is a chance to prove their grit against a higher-ranked opponent, while Turquía, ranked 28th, seeks to assert their growing pedigree on the global stage. Paraguay enters the tournament with a pragmatic, defense-first approach, having navigated a tough CONMEBOL qualifying campaign that tested their resilience. Their recent form shows a team that can grind out results, but they lack the attacking flair of previous generations. Turquía, meanwhile, arrives with momentum from a strong UEFA qualifying run, blending youthful energy with experienced leaders. Historically, these nations have rarely met, making this a fresh tactical puzzle for both. In the context of Group D, this match could determine who advances alongside a likely favorite. Paraguay’s World Cup history includes quarterfinal appearances, but they have struggled to replicate that consistency. Turquía, a semifinalist in 2002, has been rebuilding and now boasts a dynamic squad capable of challenging any opponent. Paraguay’s strength lies in their organized defense and set-piece prowess. Under their current coach, they prioritize compactness, often using a 4-4-2 or 5-3-2 formation to frustrate opponents. Key to their game is midfield disruptor Miguel Almirón, whose work rate and counter-attacking speed can unlock spaces. Recent friendlies have shown improved discipline, with clean sheets against mid-tier teams, but they must avoid defensive lapses against Turquía’s creative threats. At home in the Americas, Paraguay will lean on the passionate support at Estadio Akron, though Guadalajara’s altitude could favor their physical style. Their recent form includes a mixed run of wins and draws, highlighting a team that is hard to beat but struggles to score. Expect them to target set pieces and long balls to bypass Turquía’s press. Turquía’s strength is their attacking fluidity, led by rising star Arda Güler and experienced playmaker Hakan Çalhanoğlu. They favor a 4-2-3-1 formation that emphasizes possession and quick transitions, with full-backs pushing high to create overloads. Their recent form in UEFA qualifiers includes dominant wins over lower-ranked sides, but they have been exposed against top-tier defenses, raising questions about their consistency. Defensively, Turquía can be vulnerable to counter-attacks, especially when their full-backs are caught upfield. However, their midfield control and set-piece efficiency make them a threat from dead-ball situations. In this match, they will aim to dictate tempo early, using Güler’s creativity to break down Paraguay’s low block. - Set-piece efficiency: Both teams score frequently from set pieces, so discipline in the box will be vital. - Midfield battle: Turquía’s possession game versus Paraguay’s counter-pressing could decide control. - Altitude and heat: Guadalajara’s conditions may favor Paraguay’s physicality, but Turquía’s fitness will be tested. - Individual brilliance: The duel between Miguel Almirón and Arda Güler could spark decisive moments. - Defensive organization: Paraguay’s compact shape versus Turquía’s tactical flexibility will shape the match. This is a tight contest where Paraguay’s defensive resilience meets Turquía’s creative spark. The result may hinge on which team executes their game plan more effectively, with a draw a plausible outcome if both cancel each other out. Turquía’s higher ranking and recent form give them a slight edge, but Paraguay’s tournament experience and home-continent advantage cannot be overlooked.