Group D of the 2026 World Cup concluded on Friday with a series of unexpected outcomes as two simultaneous matches unfolded, confirming the advancement of three teams. Despite a loss to Turkey, the United States managed to secure the top spot with six points, while both Australia and Paraguay also punched their tickets to the round of 32.
The most surprising result of the day unfolded at Los Angeles' SoFi Stadium, where Turkey edged out the host nation with a dramatic 3-2 victory that was clinched in stoppage time. Auston Trusty netted an early goal for the U.S. in the third minute, but Turkey turned the tables as Arda Güler and Baris Alper Yilmaz scored before halftime. Sebastian Berhalter brought the Americans level in the 49th minute, but Kaan Ayhan's last-minute strike in the 98th minute sealed the win for Turkey. The defeat had no impact on the U.S., who had already secured the group's top position.
Simultaneously at Santa Clara's Levi's Stadium, Paraguay and Australia battled to a scoreless draw in a tight contest. Paraguayan goalkeeper Orlando Gill emerged as a key player, making a crucial save early on that denied Australia a potential lead. Despite dominating possession with 64%, Australia couldn't break through the Paraguayan defense, which failed to record a single shot on goal throughout the match.
The draw proved sufficient for both teams: Australia clinched second place in the group with four points, while Paraguay remained one of the best third-placed teams, pending the outcomes of other group matches.
The final Group D standings were as follows: the United States led with six points and a goal difference of +4; Australia followed with four points and an even goal difference; Paraguay, also with four points, had a goal difference of -2; and Turkey, despite their victory, was eliminated with three points.
Throughout the group stage, Mauricio Pochettino’s side stood out as the most prolific goal scorers, netting eight goals. They kicked off with a 4-1 win over Paraguay on June 12 and continued with a 2-0 victory over Australia on June 19. Australia had previously defeated Turkey 2-0 on June 14, while Paraguay claimed their sole victory against the Turks, 1-0, on June 19.
Turkey entered the final round needing a win and favorable results elsewhere to progress. Despite securing a victory, it was insufficient for advancement.
The United States is now set to face Bosnia and Herzegovina, who qualified as the best third-placed team from Group B, on July 1 at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara. Australia's next opponent and Paraguay's confirmation in the next round await the conclusion of the remaining group games.
Key Questions About Group D and World Cup 2026
How did the United States perform in Group D of the World Cup 2026?
The United States topped Group D with six points, despite a loss to Turkey. They secured their spot in the round of 32 after defeating Paraguay 4-1 and Australia 2-0 in earlier matches.
What was the outcome of the Paraguay vs. Australia match?
Paraguay and Australia ended their match with a 0-0 draw. Despite Australia's dominance in possession, they couldn't score, and both teams advanced thanks to the draw.
Who will the United States face next in the World Cup 2026?
The United States is scheduled to play against Bosnia and Herzegovina, who qualified as the best third-placed team from Group B, on July 1 at the Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara.