Paraguay vs Australia World Cup 2026 Preview

Paraguay and Australia meet at San Francisco Bay Area Stadium (Levi's Stadium) with kick-off at 02:00 GMT (21:00 EST on 25 June 2026). Both sides arrive under pressure after Matchday 2: Australia were beaten 2-0 by the United States, while Paraguay edged Türkiye 1-0 despite Miguel Almirón’s first-half red card.

The result of this fixture will heavily influence who advances from Group D. Tony Popovic will prioritise defensive solidity and clinical efficiency, leaning on his transitional attacking options to unlock Paraguay’s organised backline. Gustavo Alfaro’s side rely on physicality and a disciplined counter-attacking plan, with Matías Galarza and Julio Enciso central to their threat when space opens.

Key tactical adjustments are clear. Australia must tighten the defensive midfield pivot and avoid turnovers that invite rapid South American counters. Paraguay needs to accelerate vertical progression without suspended playmaker Almirón and exploit wide channels to stretch Australia’s backline and create space for Enciso.

United States, San Francisco Bay Area

paraguay, australia, world cup, 2026, levi's stadium, group d, tony popovic, gustavo alfaro, miguel almirón, julio enciso