STAR SPORTS DESK

Group D action continues as Turkiye face Paraguay in San Francisco after both sides suffered defeats in their opening matches. Sitting behind co-hosts USA and Australia in the standings, both teams will look to revive their hopes of reaching the knockout stage as they meet for the first time in a competitive fixture.

Turkiye enter under pressure despite dominating possession and registering 30 shots in their 2-0 loss to Australia. Vincenzo Montella’s side have now lost nine of their last 13 matches at major tournaments. Once considered pre-tournament dark horses after reaching the Euro 2024 quarterfinals, the Crescent-Stars must respond quickly, with anything less than three points potentially spelling an early exit from their first World Cup since 2002.

Paraguay are also searching for answers after a 4-1 defeat to the USA. Gustavo Alfaro’s side endured a poor first half but improved after the break, with Mauricio’s goal -- set up by Julio Enciso -- offering brief hope. They have now won just one of their last nine World Cup openers.

With both sides boasting attacking talent but defensive flaws, this promises an intense survival battle.