It was a game of few real opportunities as both sides knew a draw would be enough to send them both through. There was the battle to finish second — which Australia won — but it may not have been worth the risk in giving up the guarantee of four points to go all out for the win. That’s not to say neither side didn’t try to win. Or that they invoked the spirit of the Disgrace of Gijon.

Australia had the better chances in the match, and a lot of the momentum, with only a few periods of real threat from Paraguay. The Socceroos had 12 shots in total, with five hitting the target, accumulation 0.98 Expected Goals. Paraguay, meanwhile, hit the target with two of their seven shots, and had 0.46 xG.

Jackson Irvine did force an early save from goalkeeper Orlando Gill but that was the best chance of the match — coming in the fourth minute. There was a sour note for Paraguay, though, as Omar Alderete had to come off in the second half through injury.

Paraguay vs Australia: Result, highlights & stats

Paraguay vs Australia highlights

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