Claiming a vital point against Paraguay in their third and final group stage match, Australia successfully confirmed their place in the next round of the 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup.
Led by former Victory boss, Tony Popovic, six changes were made to the starting XI that suffered defeat to the USA.
Requiring just a draw to secure a top two finish in the group, with uncertainty surrounding progression if a loss was to occur, the stakes were high for the Aussies against a hungry Paraguay side.
The Socceroos would create the majority of chances in the match, recording more than double the expected goals of their opponents and forcing Paraguay’s Orlando Gill into five saves.
A hallmark of Popovic’s sides, Australia would defend valiantly, allowing a total of seven shots from Paraguay, with none ultimately troubling Patrick Beach in net.
While finishing nil-nil, celebrations erupted with the Socceroos securing progression past the group stage for the second World Cup running.
The Socceroos will be taking on the second-placed team in Group G in the Round of 32 on Saturday, July 4, kick-off 4am AEST at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, USA.
