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Australia have reached the last-32 of the World Cup and Paraguay are well placed to join them after a 0-0 draw in San Francisco that suited both sides.
The two teams finished Group D on four points but Australia’s superior goal difference earned them second place and automatic progression. They will face Group G runners-up in the next round, which is currently Iran but could also be Egypt, Belgium or even New Zealand.
Paraguay, who were set to secure a clean sheet, are currently fourth in the third-place standings, with eight out of 12 third-place finishes. They had no shots until the second half after switching to a back-three to match their opponents – although Sub Mauricio almost grabbed a late winner, which would have changed the picture completely and left Australia in big trouble.
Paraguay conceded four to the United States in their opener and then faced 32 shots from Turkey in their second match but it was a far more solid and organized defensive display against an Australia side that had plenty of possession but few interceptions.
In the end this largely forgotten game was about the result that confirmed Australia’s adventure and should be enough for Paraguay.
What does the result mean?
Important moments in San Francisco
4: Jackson Irvine forces a strong stop from Orlando Gill as Australia get on the front foot now.
36: Jordan Boss hit the target with a strike from distance as the Aussies fought back.
45+2: Christian Volpato came in from the right and forced Gill to punch his left-footed shot.
50: Half-time sub Mauricio landed Paraguay’s first shot on target as they showed more intent early in the second half.
90: Boss cuts in from the right onto the left foot but curls his shot at the far post. This is Australia’s best move.
90+3: Mauricio almost won for Paraguay but his snap shot was straight at Australia goalkeeper Patrick Beach.
Pictured: Australia celebrate reaching the knockouts
Australia’s players celebrate their progress to the last-32 of the World Cup
Australia’s players celebrate their progress to the last-32 of the World Cup
Paraguay optimistic about progress
Paraguay captain Gustavo Gomez: “It was an even, physical match. We struggled in the first half. I think we didn’t find our footing. We adjusted at half-time and the second half was better.
“The important thing is that we got a point, and I think with this result we qualified, which was our primary objective.”
