Australia reach knockouts after goalless draw Paraguay stay alive with hope of making the last 32

Australia and Paraguay played out a goalless draw in their final Group D match of the World Cup. The result was enough for the Socceroos to secure back‑to‑back appearances in the knockout stage, having also advanced in Qatar. Paraguay, meanwhile, remain in contention to reach the last 32 as one of the eight best third‑placed teams among the twelve groups.

Both teams came into the match in Santa Clara with three points each, having beaten Turkey earlier in the group. The equation was simple: a win would guarantee second place and a direct ticket to the knockouts. For Australia, however, a draw was sufficient because of their superior goal difference. The stalemate keeps Paraguay level on four points and still in the race for qualification.

The match saw both sides play with caution, aware that a single mistake could end their campaign. Australia focused on maintaining defensive solidity, while Paraguay looked for counterattacking opportunities but failed to convert. Despite the lack of goals, the result carries huge significance for both teams Australia celebrate progression, and Paraguay wait anxiously for results from other groups.