Australia booked their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 after playing out a goalless draw against Paraguay in their final Group D fixture at the San Francisco Bay Area Stadium on Friday.
The result ensured the Socceroos finished second in the group and set up a Round of 32 clash against the Group G runners-up in Dallas on July 4. Paraguay, meanwhile, remained in contention to qualify as one of the tournament’s eight best third-placed teams, with their fate hinging on results elsewhere.
Australia made the brighter start and gradually took control of the contest, creating the better opportunities through their right flank. Jordan Bos, Aiden O’Neill and Cristian Volpato combined effectively to trouble Paraguay’s well-organised defence, while Jackson Irvine was twice denied as the Socceroos searched for an early breakthrough.
Paraguay struggled to create clear-cut openings before the break, managing just one off-target effort as Australia dictated possession and territory. However, despite the Socceroos’ attacking intent, neither side could find the breakthrough before half-time.
The first chance came through Jackson Irvine, who was on the end of a Volpato cutback in the fourth minute, the first of three shots on target in the first half.
Bos had a chance saved in the 36th minute before a cross from the wingback found Jackson Irvine’s head in the penalty area in first-half stoppage time. The experienced midfielder was not able to find the balance required to hit the target.
Jordy Bos had a chance saved in the 36th minute before a cross from the wingback found Jackson Irvine’s head in the penalty area in first-half stoppage time. The experienced midfielder was not able to find the balance required to hit the target.
Paraguay were restricted to only one shot – off target – as the teams went into the sheds at half-time without a goal.
The South Americans came out of the break with renewed intensity and focus. They found their first shot on target and were the team with the momentum, with youngster Julio Enciso at the centre of their creative threats.
Bos almost created something from nothing as time ticked down. Using his pace and power he skipped past several defenders to find space inside the penalty area from the right-hand side. His shot was not able to really challenge the goalkeeper.
Two more changes followed, with Tete Yengi replacing Irankunda up top and Paul Okon-Engstler coming on for Irvine in midfield. Knowing that a draw would likely be enough for both teams to progress, they had a look at finding the winner in stoppage time.
For Paraguay, space opened for Mauricio on the edge of the penalty area, forcing a sharp save from Beach. Tete Yengi had a first-time strike at the other end of the pitch that he was not able to convert.
Ultimately, the draw was enough for Australia to finish second in the group and for Paraguay to likely advance as one of eight best third-place finishers.
(With agency inputs)