Paraguay vs australia: a draw that suits both teams in world cup group d finale
What will be the final outcome for Group D? Before the third and decisive matchday, two things are certain: the United States, with two wins, have secured top spot and a place in the knockout stage. Turkey, their opponent in Los Angeles, is already eliminated. That fixture carries no competitive stakes for either side.
Attack or run down the clock?
Seeing plenty of goals and drama is far from guaranteed in the other Group D encounter between Paraguay and Australia. This match, taking place simultaneously in Santa Clara near San Francisco, carries a major prize: second place. However, both teams are level on three points, with the Socceroos ahead of Paraguay on goal difference (0 vs -2). If they share a draw, they would almost certainly advance to the round of 16—under the new 48-team format, four points should be enough to finish among the eight best third-placed sides. Paraguay would then be virtually assured of a knockout berth.
Will these two sides push for the second spot and go all out for victory, or settle for a draw that suits their ambitions? Anything is possible, but World Cup history has seen group-stage finales where both teams simply keep possession and let the clock run. In any case, Australia and Paraguay will have a clearer picture after the final standings from the two groups playing before them (E and F). If results go their way, staying up until 4 a.m. might not be worth it.
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