Turkey have been eliminated from the 2026 FIFA World Cup after setting an unwanted record: 62 shots in their opening two group-stage matches without a single goal. This is the highest number of shots attempted by any team in the first two matches of a World Cup without scoring since statistics were first recorded in 1966.
Record-Breaking Futility
Turkey lost 2-0 to Australia and 1-0 to Paraguay, registering 30 and 32 shots respectively. Against Australia in Vancouver, they became the first team to take 30 or more shots in a World Cup match without scoring, losing to goals from Nestory Irankunda and Connor Metcalfe. Against Paraguay in San Francisco, they had five shots on target, an expected goals (xG) value of 2.12, and 50 touches in the opposition box, but Matias Galarza's goal after 65 seconds—the fastest of the tournament—decided the match.
Dark Horses Fall Short
Turkey were considered dark horses, with Real Madrid playmaker Arda Guler carrying high expectations after his Euro 2024 performances. Despite individual brilliance, no shots found the net. Coach Vincenzo Montella, booked against Paraguay, said: "I'm sad, but also very proud of my players. They gave their all until the final whistle. Football is like that sometimes."
End of a 24-Year Wait
Turkey returned to the World Cup for the first time since their third-place finish in 2002. They exit after 180 minutes, numerous chances, and zero goals, leaving with a record no team wants to own.
