With USA having secured first place in Group D and Turkey eliminated in last, the match between Paraguay and Australia serves as a decisive "final". Both teams will battle for second place and a spot in the round of 32.

Paraguay began their World Cup 2026 campaign with a 1-4 loss to USA. They later secured a 1-0 win against Turkey, but this came at a cost: attacking star Miguel Almiron received a red card and is suspended for this crucial match. Historically, Paraguay has never won two group stage matches in any World Cup, adding to their challenge.

Australia recently lost 0-2 to USA, but had already earned three points with a 2-0 victory over Turkey. With a goal difference of 0, compared to Paraguay's -2, Australia currently holds an advantage over their opponent. This means a draw will secure their spot in the knockout stage, a feat they achieved in World Cup 2022 before falling to Argentina.

Despite their current advantage, Australia's scoring ability remains a concern. They have scored more than one goal in only two of their last 10 matches, and suffered five defeats during this period.

Furthermore, Australia has never defeated a South American team in a World Cup final, recording one draw and four losses.

Vy Anh