Who is Matias Galarza? Fastest goalscorer of FIFA World Cup 2026
Galarza set a new record at the competition.
Matias Galarza, a Paraguayan midfielder, scored the fastest goal so far in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. He did so in the Group D game against Turkey in 64 seconds, handing his side an early advantage.
The goal came after a Turkey turnover while playing out of the back. It allowed Paraguay to complete a swift combination in the centre.
Matias Galarza’s low strike from about 25 yards beat Turkey’s goalkeeper, Ugurcan Cakır. Moreover, his goal saw him beat Ismael Saibari’s previous fastest goal record at the World Cup 2026, which came against Scotland.
Morocco’s Ismael Saibari scored the tournament’s previous fastest goal in the Atlas Lions’ victory against Scotland earlier on Friday. Now Paraguay’s Matias Galarza beat him by six seconds later today, scoring in the 64th second against Turkey.
Also read: Who is Rayan? Brazil’s wonderkid at FIFA World Cup 2026
Matias Galarza profile
Club: Atlanta United [on loan] | original club: River Plate
Age: 24
Position: Midfielder
Matías Galarza, a 24-year-old Paraguayan professional midfielder, is currently on loan from Argentine club Club Atlético River Plate to Atlanta United FC in Major League Soccer.
Matias Galarza’s football career was marked by several loan movements until he settled at River Plate for a while. He began his professional career with the Paraguayan team Olimpia.
However, Galarza began to make a reputation for himself in Argentina, particularly with successful local stints before joining River Plate.
In March 2026, he joined Atlanta United on a loan until June 30, 2026. He made his senior debut for La Albirroja in 2022. He has since received more than a dozen caps, scoring numerous goals in World Cup Qualifying and friendly matches.
Galarza was included in Paraguay’s roster for the FIFA World Cup 2026 as a crucial midfielder. He scored his first goal in the competition against Turkey. He also set the record for the fastest goal in the 2026 World Cup so far.
Which club does Matias Galarza play for?
He is on loan at Atlanta United from Atlético River Plate.
Which position does he play in?
He operates as a midfielder.
How old is Galarza?
He is 24 years old.
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After earning a bachelor's degree in mass media, Rajarshi began his career as a sports writer in 2019, driven by his passion for sports journalism. He has been working in the field for over six years. A devoted fan of Lionel Messi and Barcelona, Rajarshi has been involved in sports since childhood. Before turning his focus to journalism, he even represented his college at the state level. Along with covering football, he enjoys playing the game, watching movies, and experimenting with new recipes in his spare time, as cooking is one of his favorite hobbies.