AS IT STANDS --- Spare a thought for Turkiye
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The United States’ perfect start to life in Group D has seen the co-hosts qualify for the knockout round of the 2026 FIFA World Cup with one game left to spare after their 2-0 win over Australia on Friday.
USA sit atop Group B with a perfect six points, just ahead of Australia and Paraguay, both on three points. With Paraguay’s win over Turkiye on Firday night, the United States are now assured of topping the group. Ties are broken by head-to-head comparisons in the first instance and the US beat Paraguay in their first outing.
Turkiye are still without a point and eliminated.
The point standings mean there is now a battle between Australia and Paraguay for the second automatic qualification spot. Failing to do that, either of those will be hoping they are good enough to make one of the eight best third-place spots.
Turkiye will close out their World Cup campaign with a match against the US on Thursday.
The second automatic qualifying spot will also be decided on that day, when Australia face Paraguay.
Australia, who hold a better goal advantage, will need a win or a draw to advance, while Paraguay face a must-win situation.