Arda Guler first Real Madrid casualty of 2026 World Cup

Real Madrid midfielder Arda Guler becomes the first Real player to leave the 2026 World Cup after Türkiye’s 1‑0 defeat to Paraguay on the tournament’s second matchday, a loss that ends their hopes of reaching the Round of 32 and sends Guler home early. Real Madrid have many players at the 2026 World Cup, but only a week into the tournament one is already heading home. Türkiye entered the tournament as a dark‑horse according to many spectators, but a prior loss to Australia left them needing a win over Paraguay to stay in contention for the Round of 32.

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Paraguay scored early, with Matias Galarza finding the net after 64 seconds, and later Miguel Almiron received a straight red card in stoppage time of the first half. Despite Paraguay’s 32 shots and 50 touches inside Türkiye’s penalty area, Türkiye could not equalise, and the defeat means they will travel home after their upcoming match against the United States. The United States fixture is scheduled for next week. FIFA’s recent change to the tiebreaker from goal difference to head‑to‑head record ensures Türkiye cannot overtake Australia or Paraguay, sealing their elimination. Guler is expected to return to Real Madrid for pre‑season next month, but his future at the club is uncertain after the arrival of Bernardo Silva, which has prompted Chelsea to consider a move for him.