Australia secured qualification for the Round of 32 knockout phase of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Thursday after playing out a tight and tense draw against Paraguay in their final Group D fixture.
Paraguay created a late opportunity when their most dangerous player dropped his shoulder on the edge of the penalty box before being stopped by the Australian defense.
>>> Tunisian Media React to National Team's 1-3 Loss to Netherlands
The South American side recycled the possession, but the subsequent shot flew wide of the target.
Australia responded immediately in the following minute as Jordan Bos advanced the ball into the opposition penalty area.
>>> US Men's Soccer Team Rotates Roster for Türkiye World Cup Match
Bos cut inside to create space but failed to execute a clean strike, causing the ball to bobble off his boot and into the hands of Paraguayan goalkeeper Gill.
The result leaves the United States at the top of Group D with six points from their opening two matches.
>>> Turkey Takes 2-1 Lead Over Host United States in World Cup Group Stage
Prior to this fixture, both Australia and Paraguay had defeated Turkey, which left the European nation with zero points and eliminated from contention ahead of their simultaneous match against the host nation.
