In a cautious draw, Australia advances, and Paraguay advances to the 2nd phase

In the early hours of this Friday (26), Paraguay and Australia followed Vanderlei Luxemburgo's maxim, which says that "the fear of losing takes away the desire to win", and drew 0-0 at Levi's Stadium, in Santa Clara.

The result in the last round of group D guaranteed Australia's classification for the second phase (or round of 32) of the World Cup, as second place, and practically also confirmed Paraguay's place as one of the best third parties.

In the other group match, which had no value in terms of classification, the United States, already classified, lost to Turkey, who entered the field eliminated, 3-2.

Tied on points, the teams knew that a defeat could cost them classification and played a game with a lot of ball control and little offensive impetus. The goalkeepers made just four saves, three of which came from Paraguayan Orlando Gill.

With second place in group D, Australia faces the second in group G, which could be Egypt, Iran, Belgium or New Zealand. Paraguay, if it confirms its probable place, will face Germany, in a quarry in the knockout stage.

(more information shortly)

World Cup group D final classification

Standings provided by Sofascore

How the 16th round phase works, new in the 2026 World Cup knockout stage

Source: CNN