Santa Clara, California — Paraguay midfielder Matías Galarza has become an internet sensation after briefly wearing a referee’s watch during a 2026 FIFA World Cup match, in a moment that has captivated fans worldwide.
The incident occurred in the 45th minute of Paraguay’s Group D encounter against Turkey at Levi’s Stadium, when Salvadoran referee Iván Barton lost his watch while attempting to separate players during a heated exchange.
Broadcast footage showed Galarza calmly picking up the fallen watch and strapping it onto his wrist, wearing it momentarily as play continued before later returning it to the referee. No disciplinary action was taken.
The unusual moment quickly went viral across social media platforms, with fans describing it as one of the most humorous highlights of the tournament.
Despite the off-field distraction, Galarza delivered a standout performance, scoring the decisive goal just 64 seconds into the match — the fastest goal recorded so far at the 2026 World Cup — to secure a 1–0 victory for Paraguay.
The South American side held on for the win despite being reduced to 10 men following a red card to Miguel Almirón, boosting their chances of progressing from Group D.
Galarza was later named Man of the Match, capping a memorable outing that combined both brilliance on the pitch and a moment of levity that has since defined headlines.
