Australia face Paraguay at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California on Thursday 25 June 2026 (Friday 26 June UTC) in the final Group D match of the FIFA World Cup 2026. Both sides are chasing qualification to the new round of 32 in a tight group.
What is the FIFA World Cup 2026?
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is the 23rd edition of the men’s world championship, co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico from 11 June to 19 July 2026. It is the first tournament with 48 teams, grouped into 12 pools of four. The top two from each group and the eight best third-placed teams advance to a new round of 32 followed by the round of 16, quarter-finals, semi-finals and final.
When is Australia vs Paraguay?
The match kicks off on Thursday 25 June 2026 at 10:00pm ET (3:00am BST Friday). The other final Group D fixture, United States vs Türkiye, is played at the same time at SoFi Stadium.
Where is Australia vs Paraguay?
Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California is the venue. The 68,500-capacity home of the NFL’s San Francisco 49ers sits in the heart of Silicon Valley and is one of eleven US World Cup stadiums. It previously hosted the Copa America final in 2016.
Key Contenders
Australia qualified through the AFC third round, their sixth consecutive World Cup appearance. Coached by Tony Popovic, the Socceroos lean on Celtic striker Mitchell Duke, Manchester City defender Cameron Burgess and captain Aaron Mooy. Australia pride themselves on defensive solidity and set-piece threat, and will look for a low-scoring game to improve their chances.
Paraguay are back at the World Cup for the first time since 2010, when they reached the quarter-finals. Under Gustavo Alfaro, La Albirroja qualified directly from CONMEBOL thanks to a strong home record and the goals of Antonio Sanabria. Miguel Almiron provides experience and attacking flair. A positive result here could push Paraguay into the knockout phase.
How to Watch
In the UK, BBC and ITV share tournament coverage. In the US, Fox and Telemundo broadcast matches in English and Spanish. Australian viewers can watch on SBS and Optus Sport, with SBS On Demand streaming matches free. In Paraguay, Tigo Sports and Trece hold broadcast rights.
History and Records
Australia and Paraguay have met only a handful of times in friendlies, with results split between the two sides. They have never met at a FIFA World Cup. Australia’s best finish came in 2006, when they reached the round of 16. Paraguay’s best result was the 2010 quarter-finals.
Tickets and Attendance
Tickets are sold through FIFA.com. Levi’s Stadium group-stage tickets started at around USD 90 for category three. Hospitality packages are available through FIFA’s official hospitality partner. Resale takes place on FIFA’s official platform.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does Australia vs Paraguay start?
Thursday 25 June 2026 at 10:00pm ET (3:00am BST Friday, 12:00pm AEST Friday).
Where is Australia vs Paraguay being held?
Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, California.
How can I watch Australia vs Paraguay?
BBC or ITV in the UK, Fox or Telemundo in the US, SBS and Optus Sport in Australia.
Have Australia and Paraguay met at a World Cup before?
No. This is their first meeting at a FIFA men’s World Cup.