Almiron makes unwanted World Cup history as Montella laments ‘shocking exit’
Turkey’s coach, Vincenzo Montella, lamented the ‘shocking’ early exit from the World Cup as they lost 1-0 to Paraguay despite Miguel Almiron receiving a historic red card.
Matias Galarza’s goal 64 seconds into the contest in Santa Clara gave Paraguay the lead, his long-range effort the fastest strike of the tournament so far.
Turkey dominated after that, with Mert Muldur hitting a cross, and their hopes of victory strengthened when Almiron was sent off in the first half after a VAR review, becoming the first player to see red for covering his mouth in a collision, having done so in an incident involving Moldur.
Unsavory scenes ensued between the two teams following the half-time whistle, with Turkey continuing to put pressure on Paraguay’s goal after the restart.
Turkey attempted 32 shots on goal but could not find the balance, meaning they will exit the tournament while the United States won Group D following their victory over Australia. They will play their round of 32 game in the San Francisco Bay Area against the third place finisher.
Montella praises Turkey’s ‘heart and soul’ despite elimination
When they were defeated by Australia and Paraguay, Turkey tried 62 shots without finding the net, their failure which means that they are playing in the World Cup for the first time since they finished third in 2002 will be something that will not be forgotten.
However, Montella was still highly praised for his side.
“We create chances, but somehow the ball doesn’t go in,” Montella told reporters. “The other team gets a minute and goals.
“It’s really scary to say goodbye to the World Cup after only two games.
“We could have been more precise, but I don’t feel in a position to oppose the players.
“I love these players more than before because they showed their heart and soul.
“Football is irrational. That’s what makes it the best game in the world.”
“Perhaps, even without realizing it, the pressure of playing in a major tournament after being absent for such a long time affected us.
“We have to develop the habit of participating in big tournaments. I believe things will get better from there.”
Paraguay is still alive despite Almiron being red
The decision to make gagging a red card offense was introduced in April. The issue came to the fore in February during the Champions League match between Real Madrid and Benfica, when Gianluca Prestianni closed his mouth when confronted by Madrid’s Vinicius Junior.
Prestianni was given a prima facie being banned from the second leg of that tournament after being accused of racial abuse. He was eventually banned for six matches by UEFA for homophobic abuse, a ban extended by FIFA worldwide.
Salvadorian referee Ivan Barton showed no hesitation in sending off Almiron after he was sent to see the VAR sideline.
However, Paraguay is standing some way to keep hopes alive ahead of the final Group D match against Australia in Santa Clara next Thursday.
“When we won the game, when the final whistle blew, I couldn’t believe it,” said coach Gustavo Alfaro in a press conference after the game.
“Anyway, I told my players, in line with what I said earlier, that I wanted—to see that joy when they look into each other’s eyes, and you don’t need words.
“Everything is boiling, your blood, your chests, everything. And I told them that’s what I wanted to see. I want that fighting spirit … and even if people think we’re dead, we’re not.”
