Australia [WLDWL] arrive needing a positive response after being comfortably beaten 2-0 by the USA in their previous outing. That defeat not only left their qualification hopes hanging in the balance but also ended a ten-match unbeaten run in competitive fixtures stretching back to 2024 [6W, 4D, 0L]. More concerning for head coach Tony Popovic will be his side’s struggles in the final third. They managed just two shots on target across 90 minutes against the Americans. Veteran winger Mathew Leckie is also a doubt for this fixture after picking up a knock in that contest. A 5—4—1 formation with Mohamed Touré starting upfront is expected against Paraguay. Australia are chasing successive World Cup group-stage qualifications for the first time in their history, but they face a daunting challenge against a Paraguay side with strong momentum and proven resilience.