Tom Wildie

Cristian Volpato's showing in the second half against the United States was both a positive and a potential headache for Socceroos coach Tony Popovic. Stay across the latest news, analysis and features from the 2026 FIFA World Cup here. On the one hand, Volpato showed the class that had people raving about him as a youngster, and his link-up play with Nestory Irankunda had fans salivating.

Australia's hopes of finishing second in its World Cup group have taken a hit, with wing-back Jacob Italiano ruled out with injury. Stay across the latest news, analysis and features from the 2026 FIFA World Cup here. Italiano suffered a groin injury at training this week, with the extent of the injury yet to be determined. "We'll do some further tests in the coming days, but he won't be available for this game," Socceroos coach Tony Popovic said at his pre-match press conference.

Australia goes into its final World Cup group stage game knowing a point will seal second spot in group D, and a trip to Dallas for a knockout game. But Australia will not settle for anything less than a win when it meets Paraguay. "We know a point is going to get us second spot, basically. That's for all to see," said defender Jason Geria. "You're short-changing the game in a way if you're looking to just call a truce with 10 minutes to go. "That doesn't seem right in my opinion.