Sabasports Match Preview
World Cup: Paraguay vs Australia
Kickoff Time: 2026-6-26 10:00 (HKT)
Paraguay secured a precious three points with a narrow 1-0 win over Turkey in their last group match. Currently sitting third in the group with one win and one defeat, Paraguay will likely have to compete for one of the best third-placed spots to advance if they fail to win their final fixture. Tactically speaking, Miguel Almiron is the linchpin of Paraguay’s counter-attacks. Though he has lost some of his former blistering pace, his ability to carry the ball forward remains unmatched within the squad. Furthermore, Almiron can operate across multiple forward positions, and his hold-up play up front exerts a decisive influence on Paraguay’s entire attacking structure. Unfortunately, Almiron was sent off with a red card after covering his mouth during an altercation with opponents in the previous game, which rules him out of Paraguay’s final group clash against Australia. This is a massive blow to Paraguay. As the side’s primary attacking talisman, his absence risks crippling their offensive output.
Australia lost 2-0 to co-hosts the United States in their last group game, halting their run of points accumulation. They also stand on three points from one win and one loss, level with Paraguay, yet occupy second place in the group thanks to a superior goal difference. For Australia, a draw or victory against Paraguay in the final match will see them finish above their rivals and qualify as the group’s second-placed team. Australia adopt a defensive counter-attacking system and have reverted to their trademark direct aerial approach, leaning on their physical stature for long balls and high crosses. They look to exploit pace in open play while turning to set pieces to break deadlocks. Over their World Cup qualifying campaign, set pieces accounted for more than 30% of Australia’s goals. Unsurprisingly, corners and free kicks will serve as vital scoring outlets for the Socceroos at this World Cup, and aerial dominance generated from such dead-ball situations could well be the key to their progression.
When comparing the overall strength and recent form of both sides, Australia hold a clear edge. They also boast advantages over Paraguay in physical duels, running intensity and aerial battles. All factors considered, Australia are fancied to avoid defeat and push for maximum points in this fixture.
Paraguay s Last 5 Games: WLWLW
26-06-20 Turkey 0-1 Paraguay
26-06-13 United States 4-1 Paraguay
26-06-06 Paraguay 4-0 Nicaragua
26-04-01 Morocco 2-1 Paraguay
26-03-28 Greece 0-1 Paraguay
Australia ‘s Last 5 Games: LWDLW
26-06-20 United States 2-0 Australia
26-06-14 Australia 2-0 Turkey
26-06-07 Australia 1-1 Switzerland
26-05-31 Mexico 1-0 Australia
26-03-31 Australia 5-1 Curaçao
Head-To-Head Record
10-11-09 Australia 1-0 Paraguay
06-10-07 Australia 1-1 Paraguay
Prediction: Australia away win or draw