FIFA WC 2026: Turkiye 3-2 USA; Australia 0-0 Paraguay

Across Thursday’s fixtures, Turkiye stunned co hosts USA 3-2 in Los Angeles — a dramatic late winner sealing the visitors’ farewell victory even as the US topped Group D — while Australia secured a goalless draw with Paraguay in Santa Clara to finish second in Group D and advance to the Round of 32; Paraguay remain hopeful of progressing as one of the best third placed sides.

Already eliminated Turkiye ended their World Cup campaign on a high in Los Angeles, beating co hosts USA 3-2 in a breathless finish. Auston Trusty gave the hosts a lightning quick lead inside three minutes, Arda Guler equalised seven minutes later and Baris Yilmaz put Turkiye ahead before half time. Sebastian Berhalter levelled early in the second half, but Kaan Ayhan scrambled home a last gasp winner deep into stoppage time to hand Turkiye all three points; the US, despite the defeat, still top Group D.

Australia advanced to the Round of 32 after a goalless draw with Paraguay in Santa Clara, finishing second in Group D. The Socceroos had the better of the play and created several openings through Jordy Bos, Aiden O’Neill and Cristian Volpato but could not break down a resolute Paraguayan defence. Paraguay had late chances and now await confirmation of progression as one of the best third placed teams; Australia will face the Group G runners up in Dallas on July 4.

(Inputs from IANS)