Turkey XI announces starting lineup for World Cup match against Paraguay

Turkey has revealed its starting eleven for the Group D clash against Paraguay at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with the match set for June 20, 2026. Coach Vincenzo Montella is rolling out a 4-2-3-1 formation that leans heavily on a blend of emerging talent and established international veterans.

The lineup is built around two of European football’s most exciting young creators: Arda Güler and Kenan Yıldız. Both players have been central to Turkey’s attacking identity, and their inclusion signals that Montella isn’t planning to play it safe in what amounts to a must-win group stage fixture.

The starting XI breakdown

Uğurcan Çakır gets the nod between the posts. The back four lines up with Mert Müldür (or Zeki Çelik, depending on the final tactical call) at right-back, Abdülkerim Bardakcı and Merih Demiral forming the central defensive partnership, and Ferdi Kadıoğlu stationed at left-back.

The double pivot in midfield belongs to Hakan Çalhanoğlu and İsmail Yüksek. Ahead of them, the attacking trio behind the lone striker features Yunus Akgün, Arda Güler, and Kenan Yıldız. Kerem Aktürkoğlu leads the line as the central striker.

Turkey’s path to this point

Turkey announced a 35-man preliminary squad on May 18, 2026, before trimming it down to the final roster on June 2, 2026.

What Paraguay brings to the table

On the other side of the pitch, Paraguay’s predicted lineup includes goalkeeper Orlando Gill and a forward line headlined by Miguel Almirón, Julio Enciso, and Isidro Pitta.

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