Australia and Paraguay Share Numbers in San Francisco
June 28, 2026 · Global
Australia and Paraguay played out a 0–0 draw, ensuring Australia progressed to the knockout stages and almost guaranteeing Paraguay's progress.
Australia confirmed their progress to the last 32 of the 2026 World Cup after playing out a goalless draw against Paraguay in San Francisco. This result will also almost certainly take Paraguay to the next round. The Socceroos need a draw to qualify as runners-up, while Paraguay know that their fourth point in the group stage will make them one of the eight best third-placed teams.
This match showed the lack of risks taken by both teams, with Australia starting the game more aggressively. In the first half, Paraguay was unable to pose a real threat, recording only one weak shot. Without the presence of the suspended Miguel Almiron, Paraguay implemented a back-five formation. Jackson Irvine almost scored for Australia, but his effort was caught by goalkeeper Orlando Gill.
After the break, Paraguay showed more attacking intent after switching to a back-four formation. Mauricio, who came on in the second half, almost scored, but a brilliant save from Patrick Beach denied him the chance. Julio Enciso also looked active in attack, but Diego Gomez, Enciso's former Brighton team-mate, received a yellow card which ruled him out of the next knockout match.
Late in the game, Jordan Bos almost scored for Australia, while Mauricio wasted a chance to win the game in stoppage time when his shot came too close to Beach. In another match, Türkiye, who had been eliminated, beat the group leaders, USA.