16.06.2026 15:00
After the defeat against Australia, Vincenzo Montella is preparing for significant changes in the squad ahead of the Paraguay match. Kenan Yıldız and Deniz Gül are expected to enter the starting 11, while Kerem Aktürkoğlu and Barış Alper Yılmaz are expected to move to the bench.
The Turkish National Football Team, which started the 2026 FIFA World Cup Group D without any points after a 2-0 defeat to Australia, continues its preparations for the Paraguay match. It has been learned that head coach Vincenzo Montella has decided to make significant changes to the squad and game plan following the first match.
SPECIAL TACTICS FOR PARAGUAY
In the analyses conducted by the technical team, it was assessed that Paraguay, like Australia, is a team that waits defensively and tries to achieve results through fast counterattacks. It was stated that Montella has asked his players to especially reduce passing errors and is focusing on a game approach that prioritizes defensive security.
KENAN YILDIZ IN THE STARTING LINEUP
Kenan Yildiz, who entered the game in the second half against Australia and attracted attention with his performance, is expected to start in the starting lineup for the Paraguay match. The Juventus star is aimed to bring dynamism to the attacking line.
DENIZ GUL SURPRISE
It has been suggested that Montella plans to assign Deniz Gul to the forefront of the attack. It was stated that the young striker is preferred due to his physical strength and effectiveness in aerial duels.
KEREM AND BARIS MAY REMAIN ON THE BENCH
Due to the squad changes, Kerem Akturkoglu and Baris Alper Yilmaz are expected to be dropped to the bench. While a more physical structure is preferred to replace Kerem, who was ineffective against the Australian defense in the first match, it is planned to bring Baris Alper into the game in the later stages.
CRITICAL 90 MINUTES
The Turkish National Team will largely determine its future in the group with the result it gets against Paraguay. The crescent-and-star team aims to secure its first points in the World Cup and keep its hopes alive for the round of 32.