Turkey has been mathematically eliminated from the 2026 World Cup after consecutive defeats in the group stage. Australia defeated Turkey 2–0, followed by a 1–0 loss to Paraguay, leaving the Turks with zero points after two matches.
Coach Vincenzo Montella acknowledged the team's extensive efforts despite the disappointing outcomes. "The country had big expectations," Montella said. "We tried everything with 65 shots across two matches. Fate was not on our side. There is no need to blame anyone."
Midfielder Hakan Çalhanoğlu reflected on the devastation within the squad: "We tried everything in two matches. Bad luck. Paraguay scored on their first shot! Everyone is devastated. This might be my last World Cup," he said. Defender Arda Güler defended the team's mentality: "Our team spirit is fine. We simply couldn't execute what we planned on the pitch, and we didn't score the goals we needed."
Turkey becomes only the second team to be eliminated in the group stage, following Haiti. The team plays USA in their final group match as their tournament campaign effectively concludes. Turkey's elimination clears tournament winner markets, with odds now zero for the nation, and reduces betting exposure on Turkish player props in knockout stages.
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