Breaking a world record in just 64 seconds
In short: Matías Galarza didn't just score for his country; he rewrote the history books of the FIFA World Cup. In a high-pressure environment against Turkey, the Paraguayan midfielder netted a goal so rapid it shattered a long-standing record, becoming an instant icon of clinical efficiency.
Matías Galarza’s rise from Asunción to the global stage is marked by rapid development in Brazil. After moving on loan to Vasco da Gama in 2020, he became a historic figure for the club at just 19 years old. Vasco's youngest non-native player of this century, he first appeared on 3 March 2021, entering the match during the interval against Portuguesa. His impact was immediate; he scored his first professional goal only eleven days later on March 24, 2021. Before his Brazilian stint, he played for his hometown club Olimpia. He was initially assigned to the under-20 squad upon arrival.
His career path reflects the complex web of modern football transfers, involving moves between Brazil's Série A, Argentina's Primera División with River Plate, and eventually Major League Soccer. After a permanent move to Vasco in 2021—where the club purchased 60% of his economic rights for US$ 500,000—he navigated several loan spells before joining Inter Miami on loan through the 2026 season. He spent time on loan with Coritiba and Talleres during his journey. His contract with River Plate runs until the end of 2028.
The pinnacle of his career arrived during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Representing Paraguay against Turkey, Galarza scored a goal just 64 seconds into the match. This feat surpassed Morocco's Ismael Saibari, who had set the previous record of 71 seconds against Scotland earlier in the tournament. Despite his team playing with ten men for the entire second half, Galarza’s early strike secured a 1–0 victory and earned him Man of the Match honors. This goal was the only score in that specific match. He was also included in a 26-man squad for the tournament.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: Matías Galarza (Paraguayan footballer)
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