Australia face forced changes for World Cup Group D finale

Australia will be forced into at least two changes for their final World Cup Group D match against Paraguay in Santa Clara on Thursday after injuries ruled out right-back Jacob Italiano and winger Mat Leckie. Officials said Italiano suffered an adductor injury in training this week, while Leckie sustained a hamstring strain in the previous match against the United States. Coach Tony Popovic said the squad has been prepared for rotation, with selections to be finalised closer to kick-off.

The absences leave Australia reshaping a starting XI that otherwise carried continuity through the opening two group games. Popovic said the staff have planned for different scenarios and that every player in the squad understands he may be asked to contribute.

Australia head into the group finale knowing the result will determine their final position in Group D. Officials said a win or a draw against Paraguay would secure second place and reduce reliance on other results.

Paraguay, meanwhile, are set to be without Miguel Almirón, who is suspended after receiving a red card in his team’s previous match against Turkey. With both sides adjusting personnel, the selections in Santa Clara are likely to shape how the game is approached tactically.

Right-back options and potential reshuffle

Italiano’s injury creates an immediate decision on the right side of defence. Jason Geria and Kai Trewin have been identified as the leading candidates to step in. Geria operated on the right side of central defence in the second half against the United States, while Trewin previously started at full-back in a warm-up match against Switzerland.

Any change at right-back could also influence how Australia progress the ball and manage transitions, particularly if the coaching staff opt for a slightly different structure to suit the available personnel. Popovic did not rule out an adjustment to the team’s system, indicating the staff have considered multiple solutions and will settle on the approach closer to kick-off.

The choice between a like-for-like replacement and a broader tweak is expected to reflect both the qualities of the replacements and the specific match plan for Paraguay. Australia have already leaned on squad depth across the tournament, and the staff signalled that flexibility remains part of their preparation.

Attacking choices without Mat Leckie

Leckie’s hamstring issue removes an experienced wide option and may affect how Australia create depth and direct running from the flanks. Popovic has several candidates to step in, with Nestory Irankunda, Connor Metcalfe and Cristian Volpato all mentioned as possibilities.

Volpato was described as impactful in the final half-hour against the United States, while Irankunda and Metcalfe remain in contention depending on the tactical plan. Popovic kept his selection thinking private, but reiterated that the squad has trained with the expectation that different players may be needed at different moments during the tournament.

Australia are expected to confirm their team closer to kick-off. The match outcome will decide their final Group D placing and, with it, the immediate shape of their path beyond the group stage.