La Albirroja meets the Socceroos in a high-stakes Group D clash at Levi’s Stadium
Line-ups 🇵🇾 PAR 5-4-1 🇦🇺 AUS 3-4-3
Coach: G. Alfaro
Starting XI
- 12 Orlando Gill G
- 4 Juan José Cáceres D
- 2 Gustavo Velázquez D
- 15 G. Gómez D
- 3 Omar Alderete D
- 26 Alexandro Maidana D
- 8 D. Gómez M
- 14 Andrés Cubas M
- 23 Matías Galarza M
- 19 Julio Enciso M
- 21 Gabriel Ávalos F
Substitutes
- 22 Gastón Olveira G
- 6 Júnior Alonso D
- 9 Antonio Sanabria F
- 25 Isidro Pitta F
- 7 Ramón Sosa F
- 16 Damián Bobadilla M
- 18 Álex Arce F
- 17 A. Romero M
- 5 Fabián Balbuena D
- 11 Maurício M
- 24 Gustavo Caballero F
- 1 Gatito Fernández G
- 13 José Canale D
- 20 Braian Ojeda M
Coach: T. Popović
Starting XI
- 18 Patrick Beach G
- 3 Alessandro Circati D
- 19 Harry Souttar D
- 25 Lucas Herrington D
- 16 Aziz Behich M
- 13 A. O'Neill M
- 22 Jackson Irvine M
- 5 Jordan Bos M
- 8 Connor Metcalfe M
- 17 Nestory Irankunda F
- 20 Cristian Volpato M
Substitutes
- 24 Paul Okon-Engstler M
- 23 Nishan Velupillay F
- 26 Tete Yengi F
- 9 Mohamed Touré F
- 15 Kai Trewin D
- 14 Cammy Devlin M
- 10 Ajdin Hrustic M
- 21 Cameron Burgess D
- 11 Awer Mabil M
- 6 Jason Geria D
- 2 Miloš Degenek D
- 12 Paul Izzo G
- 1 Mathew Ryan G
Paraguay enters this fixture looking to stabilize their campaign after an inconsistent start, relying on the creative spark of Julio Enciso to break down defensive blocks. Under Gustavo Alfaro, they prioritize a disciplined, low-block structure that seeks to frustrate opponents before launching lethal transitions through the wings.
Australia presents a stark stylistic contrast, favoring a high-intensity, vertical approach that leverages their superior physical conditioning. With Tony Popovic emphasizing relentless pressing, the Socceroos will aim to drag a resilient Paraguay out of their defensive shell and dictate the tempo of the midfield battle.
Head to head
These two nations have rarely crossed paths on the international stage, making this a fresh tactical puzzle for both camps. While Paraguay draws upon a storied history in South American competition and their triumphant return to the world stage, Australia carries the momentum of a program that has become a fixture in the knockout rounds through sheer collective grit.
Players to watch
The dynamic attacker provides the unpredictable flair needed to unlock Australia’s well-organized defensive line.
As the engine room of the Australian midfield, his ability to arrive late in the box often dictates the outcome for the Socceroos.
His commanding presence in central defense is essential for neutralizing Australia's aerial threats during set-piece scenarios.
The veteran goalkeeper brings a wealth of experience to a high-pressure match, acting as the final line of resistance.
Fun facts
- Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara serves as the home of the NFL's San Francisco 49ers and is one of the premier venues for the 2026 tournament.
- Paraguay’s national team is historically known as La Albirroja, a reference to their iconic red and white striped shirts.
- Australia is one of the few nations to have successfully qualified for the World Cup while being part of the Asian Football Confederation despite their geographic location.
- Tereré, a traditional Paraguayan herbal drink, is often consumed by players and staff to maintain hydration and tradition during long training camps.
- The Socceroos have earned a reputation as one of the fittest teams in international football, often outworking opponents in the final fifteen minutes of matches.