Australia secure World Cup last 32 spot after draw with Paraguay
Australia have advanced to the World Cup last 32 following a goalless draw against Paraguay in San Francisco. The result also puts Paraguay in a strong position to progress as one of the best third-placed teams.
The draw ensured Australia qualified as group runners-up. For Paraguay, securing a fourth point in the group stage significantly boosts their chances of reaching the knockout rounds. The match saw minimal risks taken by both sides, a factor that could fuel discussions about the format allowing third-placed teams to advance.
Match Overview and Key Moments
Australia began the match with more attacking intent, particularly in the first half, where Paraguay offered little threat. Paraguay, playing with a back-five due to Miguel Almiron‘s suspension, managed only one off-target shot during this period. Early in the game, Jackson Irvine had an angled shot saved by goalkeeper Orlando Gill, who later parried a curling effort from Cristian Volpato.
The second half saw Paraguay adopt a more offensive approach, switching to a back four. Substitute Mauricio had a shot saved by Patrick Beach shortly after coming on. Julio Enciso also proved to be an active presence. However, Diego Gomez, a former teammate of Enciso, received a booking that will see him miss the first knockout game. Defender Omar Alderete was forced off the field after sustaining a knee injury.
In the closing stages, Jordan Bos came close to scoring for Australia, while Mauricio had another opportunity to secure a win for Paraguay in added time, but his low strike was too central for Beach to be troubled. In the other Group D match, already eliminated Turkey defeated group winners the US.
Socceroos’ Preparations for the Knockout Stage
Socceroos coach Tony Popovic expressed pride in his team and staff, describing them as a “wonderful young group of men.” He acknowledged a late scare when Patrick Beach made a crucial injury-time save. Popovic stated that the team deserved the result, calling their performance “wonderful.”
The coach made six changes to the starting lineup against Paraguay, a decision supported by the team. Ajdin Hrustic commented on the team’s trust in Popovic‘s judgment, noting that his “gut feeling” selections had proven effective in previous matches.
The team’s first-half dominance was notable, particularly on the right flank where Jordy Bos and Cristian Volpato created problems for the Paraguayan defence. Bos, typically a left-sided player, had only trained on the right in two sessions following an injury to Jacob Italiano. Midfielder Aiden O’Neill, who was named player of the match, suggested that Bos was equally deserving of the honour, highlighting his talent and creativity.
Australia will now face the runners-up from the group featuring Egypt, Iran, and Belgium. This match is scheduled for Friday, 3 July, at 19:00 BST. Paraguay, as it stands, is expected to play Group E winners Germany on Monday at 21:30 BST. The Socceroos are set to travel to Dallas from Oakland on Wednesday, with their last-32 game taking place in Dallas, Texas.
The identity of Australia‘s next opponent is yet to be confirmed, with Egypt, Belgium, Iran, or New Zealand all potential contenders from Group G. The placings in Group G will be decided on Friday. Hrustic emphasised the need for constant focus in the World Cup, citing how quickly games can change if concentration wavers.
The team will have a seven-day break before their next match, allowing them to recover and prepare. Hrustic mentioned that the team hopes for a few days off to enjoy their qualification before returning to work.
| Team | Played | Won | Drawn | Lost | Goals For | Goals Against | Goal Difference | Points | Form, Last 6 games, Oldest first |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Mexico | 3 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 6 | 0 | 6 | 9 | No Result No Result No Result W Result… |
| 2 South Africa | 3 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 3 | -1 | 4 | No Result No Result No Result L Result… |
| 3 South Korea | 3 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 2 | 3 | -1 | 3 | No Result No Result No Result W Result… |
| 4 Czech Republic | 3 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 6 | -4 | 1 | No Result No Result No Result L Result… |
The Socceroos will play their next match on Friday, 3 July, at 1pm in Texas.
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Source: bbc.co.uk
As News GB's Senior Football Correspondent, Lewis Hartnell reports on the Premier League, the EFL and the England national side for readers across the country. He reported on south-coast football for a regional title. He holds a degree in Sports Journalism from Solent University and completed an NCTJ diploma. Lewis lives in Southampton, where he watches youth football and follows the transfer market. “The week's training ground decides the weekend's headlines.”
