Paraguay
- Paraguay have conceded seven goals in their last five games, but have also scored nine.
- The Albirroja are fourth in the table with no points after suffering a heavy 4-1 defeat against USA just six days ago, while Australia are second in Group D with three points after their 2-0 win over Turkey just 4 days ago.
- Gustavo Alfaro has been at the helm since August 2024 and has implemented a pragmatic 4-3-3 system that is first and foremost a defensive structure.
- However, they have lost their previous two away games to Morocco and the USA and those defeats to teams of similar quality to the Socceroos persuade us that Paraguay are just as likely to edge this contest.
Australia
- Australia have scored nine goals in their last five matches.
- Tony Popovic has implemented a completely different system for Australia since taking over in September 2024, preferring a high-tempo vertical game with plenty of aggressive pressing and direct attacks.
- It's a contrast of styles that could keep this contest pretty tight at San Francisco Bay Area Stadium and while Paraguay are available at 2.15, we are siding with the slight favorites here at 2.15.
- Australia have won three, drawn one and lost one of their last five in all competitions and look worthy favourites to overcome Paraguay, but Paraguay have won three of their last five in all competitions.
Paraguay
- Mauricio is leading the line for Alfaro's side with one goal in his one World Cup appearance so far.
- Julio Enciso is a creative force behind him with one assist in Group D and three in Paraguay's last five.
Australia
- Nestory Irankunda is in fine form for Australia with three goals in his last five.
- Connor Metcalfe leads the goal charts with his one in the group game against Turkey.
- Paul Okon-Engstler has one assist and has been a creative spark for the Socceroos.
Betting Insights
- Paraguay are available at 2.15.
- Paraguay have conceded seven goals in their last five matches but have also scored nine, while Australia have also scored nine goals in their last five.
Prediction
- We are siding with the slight favorites here at 2.15.
- Paraguay's extra defensive discipline should see them edge this close game.
