Australia
Australia go into this decider with the upper hand, second on goal difference after beating Turkey 2-0 and losing 2-0 to the United States, so a draw is enough to see them through. As I see it, Tony Popovic's team will look to be tough to crack, relying on Harry Souttar and a deep block to frustrate Paraguay. Patrick Beach has been reliable between the posts, and the squad got through the group with no new injury worries. I am expecting a disciplined, careful game plan based on absorbing pressure and hitting on the break through Nestory Irankunda, although Mathew Leckie possibly missing out with a hamstring injury is clearly a blow.
Expected Lineup: Beach; Italiano, Circati, Souttar, Burgess, Bos; Irvine, O'Neill, Okon-Engstler, Velupillay; Irankunda.
Paraguay
Paraguay know only a win will make sure of qualification, even after they beat Turkiye while playing the whole second half with ten men, which followed a heavy loss to the United States in their opener. I think Gustavo Alfaro's team have a genuine problem, as Miguel Almiron is suspended, and he is the player who supplies their creative spark in midfield. Gustavo Gomez will organise a back line that must hold firm while the side pushes for a goal, but they will need to carve out more chances in attack than they managed against Turkiye, even though they won that match. They have the firepower to win, but breaking down a tight Australian block without their main playmaker is a big ask.
Expected Lineup: Gill; Caceres, Gomez, Alderete, Alonso; Cubas, Galarza; Gomez, Enciso; Pitta, Bobadilla.
