Australia suffered a major 2-0 defeat against the USA in their second Group D match up, with the media coining their performance a ‘disasterclass.’
An own goal, and one conceded means Australia is fighting to stay in the competition. Needing a win against Paraguay to stay afloat.
The Socceroos will need a point to progress, though this does not mean that is the result they are aiming for.
Everything will be left on the field
Jason Geria #6 of Australia speaks to the media after his work out during their training session at Oakland Roots & Soul Sports Club on June 22, 2026 in Alameda, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
Jason Geria made clear Australia would not go into this game gently.
“I think you’re cheating 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,”
“Yeah, we could both progress with a point, that’s evident, but I don’t think it’s in us to just concede or just take the foot off the gas.”
“We want to win every game, regardless of who the opponent is or what the situation is.”
Win or lose, Geria and the Socceroos have urged all of Australia to get off school and work to watch.
Socceroos need to expect the unexpected
Jackson Irvine of Australia applauds the fans after the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group D match between USA and Australia at Seattle Stadium on June 19, 2026 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by MB Media/Getty Images)
Jackson Irvine weighs in on Paraguay's individual quality. Noting Australia needs to go into this match expecting the unexpected.
“It was with about five minutes to go, and they had won the ball back high up the pitch, and they had a chance to go to the corner. The guy just whips the cross into the back stick with three guys, and they try and score again with 10 men, and they’re 1-0 up. Expect the unexpected. I guess that’s probably the best way to put it.”
Irvine notes the team needs to learn from their mistakes against the USA by being “able to come into the duals and arrive.”
“We’re playing against top teams at the highest level, but they’re going to have moments where you’re going to have to defend, and we’re going to have to suffer and you’ve got to find ways to get through that.”
This match is crucial in Australia, taking the second-place spot to progress into the knockouts.
Anthony Albanese, Australia's Prime Minister, emphasised the importance of this match for Australia. Showcasing his unwavering support for the team despite their loss.
"We look forward to the game against Paraguay and to us qualifying through to the next round.”
The match will take place 10 pm ET and will serve as Group D’s second place decider.
