Australia Reach World Cup Round of 32 After Goalless Draw With Paraguay

 

Australia secured their place in the World Cup round of 32 after sharing a goalless draw with Paraguay in San Francisco on Friday morning. 

The result, which suited both teams, confirmed the Socceroos as runners-up in Group D behind the United States and left Paraguay in a strong position to advance as one of the eight best third-placed teams. Australia will face the runners-up from the group containing Egypt, Iran and Belgium on July 3 in Arlington, Texas.

The draw was always the likely outcome once both sides entered the game on three points each, knowing a share of the spoils would almost certainly be enough for both to progress. The cautious approach was evident from the first whistle, with neither team willing to take risks.

Australia were the brighter side in the first half. Jackson Irvine saw an angled effort turned over by goalkeeper Orlando Gill inside four minutes, and Gill made another smart save to palm away a Cristian Volpato curler before half time. Paraguay barely threatened in the opening 45 minutes, registering just one wayward shot and setting up with a back five in the absence of Miguel Almiron, who was suspended after his red card against Turkey.

Paraguay showed more intent after the break, switching to a back four and creating a couple of half chances. Substitute Mauricio had his low effort saved by Patrick Beach within five minutes of coming on, and Julio Enciso was lively throughout. Jordan Bos went close for Australia in the dying seconds before Mauricio spurned a chance to win it in stoppage time, his strike from the edge of the box too close to Beach.

Australia coach Tony Popovic made six changes to his starting lineup, including handing 18-year-old Lucas Herrington his first World Cup appearance. The Colorado Rapids midfielder became the youngest Australian to play at a World Cup.

Paraguay midfielder Diego Gomez picked up his second yellow card of the group stage and will miss the first knockout game if his side advances. Defender Omar Alderete was also forced off late on after jarring his knee.

It is the third time Australia have reached the knockout stage of a World Cup, having previously gone out in the round of 16 in both 2006 and 2022. 

Paraguay, meanwhile, are in good shape to reach the last 32 for the fifth time, though they must wait for other results to confirm their fate. 

In the other Group D game, already-eliminated Turkey beat group winners the United States.