Melbourne City’s influence was on full display as the Socceroos secured their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026™ Round of 32 with a hard-fought 0-0 draw against Paraguay.
Five players with City connections – representing 45 per cent of Australia’s starting XI – featured from the opening whistle as the Socceroos finished second in Group D to progress to the knockout stages for just the third time in the nation’s history.
Current City duo Patrick Beach and Aziz Behich were joined in the starting side by Academy graduates Jordan Bos and Connor Metcalfe, while former City midfielder Aiden O’Neill produced another outstanding display in Australia’s midfield.
Beach continued his impressive debut FIFA World Cup campaign, keeping his second clean sheet, while O’Neill was recognised for his influential performance by being named Player of the Match.
Behich made his first start of the tournament against Paraguay, extending an incredible personal milestone by starting at least one match at each of the last three FIFA World Cups.
Bos was another of Australia’s standout performers, providing his trademark energy down the right flank throughout the contest, while Metcalfe once again impressed as the Socceroos secured the result they needed to progress.
Former City defender Kai Trewin was also part of Australia’s matchday squad, named on the bench for the Group D finale, while Mathew Leckie missed through injury.
The Socceroos will now turn their attention to the Round of 32, with their knockout opponent to be confirmed following the completion of the remaining group stage fixtures tomorrow.
Feature Image Credit: Socceroos
