The FIFA World Cup is here.

It is Thursday, June 25, 2026, at 7:03 am.

Jacob Italiano is out of the Paraguay game.

In short:

Jacob Italiano will not play in Australia's last group stage game.

He got hurt during training and has a groin injury.

What's next?

The Socceroos play Paraguay on Friday at 12 pm AEST.

Australia's chances of finishing second in their group are hurt.

Get the latest news from the 2026 FIFA World Cup here.

Italiano got hurt during training and the injury is not clear yet.

The coach said Italiano will not play in the next game.

The coach is missing two right-sided players for the Paraguay game.

Jason Geria can play on the right or in central defense.

But the coach is not saying who will replace Italiano.

The coach said he considers all players for the game.

Every player in the squad has a chance to play.

Paraguay is a different challenge.

Australia has played different teams in the World Cup.

But they have a plan for the Paraguay game.

Australia has not done well against South American teams.

Aziz Behich can play on the right side of defense.

Since 2023, Australia has lost to Ecuador, Argentina, Venezuela, and Colombia.

Australia played friendlies against South American teams in 2025.

The coach said Paraguay is a different type of opponent.

The coach wanted to prepare the players for South American teams.

Paraguay is a tough team that can get results.

The coach said they will not play for a draw.

The coach wants to win the game.

He expects Paraguay to want to win too.

Australia is in a good position to advance.

The game against Paraguay is special for the coach.

The coach scored a goal against Paraguay in his last game.

The coach noticed the fixture was against Paraguay.

The coach said it is special to play Paraguay again.

He hopes Australia will have a great day against Paraguay.

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