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Sport Nation
FWC: MEX v RSA from 6am, SN ExtraFIFA World Cup 2026: USA, Turkey, Australia, Paraguay preview
Sport Nation • June 11th, 2026 1:11 pm
Group D promises to be an intense, fiercely competitive section defined by high atmospheric pressure, robust defensive structures, and the immense weight of expectation on the co-hosts.
The USA carries a massive host nation burden, looking to capitalizes on their "Golden Generation" under the elite guidance of head coach Mauricio Pochettino.
Anchored by talisman Christian Pulisic and the clinical finishing of Folarin Balogun, the Americans boast a highly capable, European-seasoned attack - though serious question marks between the posts and depth at centre-back could expose them under pressure.
They face a stern technical test from Turkey, a side renowned for its emotional intensity and midfield elegance. The Crescent Stars will look to the defensive steel of Merih Demiral and the versatility of Ferdi Kadıoğlu to unleash their creative, expressive attacking talent that includes Real Madrid youngster, Arda Güler – who has been compared to Zinedine Zidane.
Turkish midfielder Arda Güler playing for Real Madrid | Photo: Peter Joneleit/Icon Sportswire
The group's grit comes from Australia and Paraguay, two masterclasses in tournament resilience.
With Tony Popovic's robust three-at-the-back system, the Socceroos’ collective defensive engine includes the veteran safe hands of keeper Mat Ryan, and towering defender Harry Souttar's set-piece threat.
But scoring goals might be an issue for our trans-Tasman friends - while Mitch Duke has World Cup goals in the bank, he was inconsistent in qualifying and they could end up leaning on Watford’s attacking youngster Nestory Irankunda.
Meanwhile, Paraguay behaves as a literal defensive fortress. La Albirroja is entirely comfortable without the ball, trusting the granite centre-back pairing of Gustavo Gómez and Omar Alderete while unleashing Brighton's dynamic Julio Enciso to punish teams on the counter.
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FIFA World Cup 2026: USA, Turkey, Australia, Paraguay preview | Group D
