Australia's Projected Lineup for FIFA World Cup 2026 Match Against Paraguay

Tony Popovic's side controls its own destiny in Group D and will be looking to avoid another upset as it chases a place in the knockout stage.

Following its defeat to the United States, Australia will look to avoid another setback on Thursday when it takes on a determined Paraguay in a winner-takes-all battle for second place in Group D at the FIFA World Cup 2026. Here's the lineup the Socceroos are expected to field as they aim to book their place in the knockout stage.

PROBABLE LINEUP

Head coach Tony Popovic is expected to stick with a 5-4-1 formation.

Patrick Beach is set to once again get the nod over veteran Mathew Ryan between the posts.

Australia's back line will undergo one notable change following Jacob Italiano's absence with a right adductor injury. Jason Geria is expected to step into the starting XI alongside Jordan Bos, Cameron Burgess, Harry Souttar, and Alessandro Circati.

In midfield, the Socceroos will also be without star winger Mathew Leckie, who is sidelined by a left hamstring injury. Nishan Velupillay, Paul Okon-Engstler, Connor Metcalfe, and Nestory Irankunda are expected to make up the midfield quartet.

Up front, Mohamed Touré is projected to lead the attack as the lone striker.

WHAT AUSTRALIA NEES TO ADVANCE

Australia controls its own destiny heading into the decisive Group D finale at San Francisco Stadium.

The Socceroos only need a draw to secure second place behind the United States, with their superior goal difference giving them the edge over Paraguay. A victory would also send them comfortably into the Round of 32.

A defeat, however, would drop Australia to third place and leave its qualification hopes dependent on the results in other groups, creating the possibility of an early World Cup exit.