- Paraguay recent goals: Paraguay have scored nine times in their last five matches, but also conceded seven goals in that sequence.
- Australia recent goals: Australia have scored the same amount, nine goals in their last five, indicating that they can score and have been in decent form.
- Recent results: Paraguay lost 4-1 to the USA, while Australia beat Turkey 2-0.
Efforts to edge Paraguay for a close game
With 3 points and no points on the board respectively, Australia and Paraguay are currently occupying second and fourth in the standings of FIFA World Cup Group D, with Paraguay returning to the tournament for the first time since 2010 adding an extra edge to Friday's crucial group matchup.
Paraguay have been a tough team to break down under Gustavo Alfaro since he took charge in August 2024, preferring to set up in a 4-3-3 formation with a compact low block and a very controlled and risk-averse build-up. Alfaro's men press selectively, but they always have players ready to push forward on the transition and are dangerous from set pieces.
Australia have been much more proactive in the pressing phase under Tony Popovic, who took charge in September 2024. The Socceroos press high and look to attack the opposition with tempo and directness when they win the ball back, using their pace in behind to great effect.
Paraguay can edge it
Attacking threats
Both Paraguay and Australia have some impressive attacking threats to consider for this encounter.
- Mauricio has scored 1 goal in 1 World Cup match, while Julio Enciso has been a creative spark with 1 assist in the group and 3 in his last 5 appearances for the Jellybeans.
- Nestory Irankunda has 3 goals in Australia's last 5, but they're not a team known for a singular goal-getter.
- Connor Metcalfe has scored 1 goal, while Paul Okon-Engstler has 1 assist in the group.
Odds and prediction
Paraguay are the slight favorites for this game at 2.15, with Australia available at 3.45 in the straight-out market, which is very fair for the Socceroos, who will be flying high after their win over Turkey. However, we feel that Paraguay have a little more about them and can use their structure to beat this Australia team, who have it in them to make a game close.
The contrasting styles of these two teams should lead to a cagey game, and as such, we're taking 'Under 2.5 goals' at 1.66, and we're going with an Alfaro's side to eke out a victory for the Jellybeans.
