June 26, 2026 at – 01:13
The Paraguayan team drew 0-0 against Australia at the Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, at the close of Group D of the 2026 World Cup. La Albirroja finished the phase with four points and, pending the results of the other groups, is provisionally ranked as the fourth best third, very close to ensuring its classification to the round of 16.
The Paraguayan team closed its participation in the group stage of the 2026 World Cup with a goalless draw against Australia at the Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara. The point allows him to remain, for the moment, among the best third parties in the competition and to wait for the results that will complete the first round.
Read more: Paraguay vs. Australia: third date of Group D of the 2026 World Cup live
Gustavo Alfaro surprised from the beginning with a scheme of five defenders. The entry of Gustavo Velázquez and Alexandro Maidana joined the line made up of Juan Cáceres, Gustavo Gómez and Omar Alderete, seeking greater defensive solidity and depth on the lanes. However, the approach did not achieve the expected effect. Paraguay divided the ball too much, quickly lost possession and had difficulty generating attacking partnerships.
Matías Galarza did an outstanding job in the recovery, although it was difficult for him to connect with the offensive men. Julio Enciso appeared very reclined on the left wingfar from the areas where it usually makes a difference. His most dangerous action came after a steal of the ball, although without managing to seriously disturb the Australian goal. Gabriel Ávalos, debuting as the only area referencealso found few opportunities against a very firm oceanic defense.
Australia showed its best arguments with Cristian Volpato and Jordan Boswho generated the main arrivals through the right sector and constantly demanded the Paraguayan defense.
One more time, Andrés Cubas was one of the highest points of the Albirroja. The midfielder made an enormous display, recovering countless balls and covering large sectors of the field, supporting the team in the middle zone.
For the second half, Alfaro modified the scheme with the entry of Mauricio for Alexandro Maidana. The change gave another dynamic to the team. Paraguay began to handle the ball better and found greater offensive clarity, being Mauricio, the footballer who tried to unbalance the most with his driving and mid-distance shots.
The injury of Omar Alderete forced the entry of José Canalewhile later Alex Arce replaced Gabriel Ávalos. Later, Junior Alonso and Damián Bobadilla entered, movements with which the coach prioritized maintaining balance and ensuring a tie.
The clearest chance of the match came at 92 minutes. Mauricio found space inside the area, but his shot came out without the necessary power and was controlled by the Australian goalkeeper, wasting the possibility of victory at the end.
In the decisive section there was also a warning from Diego Gómez, who accumulated yellow cards and will not be available for an eventual round of 16 match.
Paraguay did not achieve the victory that assured them second place in the group, but the tie keeps them with great possibilities of advancing as one of the best third places.. Now, classification will depend on the results recorded in the remaining groups of the 2026 World Cup.
Referee performance
The French Clement Turpin He delivered a sober and high-level performance in the goalless draw between Paraguay and Australia. The experienced European judge allowed the game to develop, correctly applied the advantage criterion and did not interrupt the match for minor infractions, favoring the continuity of the match.
Turpin showed the personality to lead a high-tension engagement, maintaining disciplinary control without losing authority and judiciously resolving the most disputed actions. In general terms, he signed a solid arbitration, transmitting security and leaving a positive image in a key duel for classification to the 16th finals of the 2026 World Cup.
