FIFA World Cup 26™: What to look out for in Paraguay v Australia 🇵🇾🇦🇺 | OneFootball

San Francisco Bay Area Stadium plays host to a fascinating FIFA World Cup 26™ showdown as Paraguay take on Australia.

Here is everything you need to look out for in the Group D encounter.

Who is playing today? 👀

Everything is on the line for these two nations as they battle for second place in Group D and a place in the knockout rounds of the FIFA World Cup 26™.

Australia have put themselves in a strong position after opening their campaign with a 2-0 victory over Türkiye before falling to a 2-0 defeat against group winners the United States. The Socceroos know that a win or a draw here will be enough to secure qualification as Group D runners-up and set up a Round of 32 meeting with the Group G runners-up in Dallas on 3 July.

Paraguay bounced back impressively from a heavy 4-1 defeat to the United States by edging past Türkiye 1-0 in their second outing. Gustavo Alfaro's side know the equation is simple: they must beat Australia to leapfrog their opponents and qualify as Group D runners-up, earning a Round of 32 clash with the Group G runners-up in Dallas on 3 July.

Players to watch 🔥

Matías Galarza is the man to watch for Paraguay having scored the only goal of the game in that win against Türkiye. His Attacking Score of 8.6 in that game was the best of the match in the FIFA Power Rankings - powered by Aramco.

Alongside him, Julio Enciso possesses the creativity capable of unlocking even the most organised defences. His Creativity Score in their last victory was an impressive 8.4.

For Australia, much of the attacking responsibility falls on Cristian Volpato. His Creativity Score of 8.1 was the best of the entire match in the 2-0 defeat to USA in their last outing.

Defensively, Harry Souttar will have a huge role to play. The towering centre-back offers leadership, aerial dominance and composure under pressure and will be tasked with containing Paraguay's dangerous forward line.

Must-watch video 🎥

Jason Geria has a message for all Australia fans.

Fun facts 📊

Our prediction 🔮

Paraguay 1-1 Australia