Socceroos fans will be able to watch Australia's final FIFA World Cup group match at a live screening. Photo: Greater Shepparton City Council
With FIFA World Cup fever sweeping the nation, fans will have the chance to cheer on their heroes at the Shepparton Showgrounds — as Australia takes on Paraguay looking to secure passage to the round of 32 knockouts.
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After an emphatic 2-0 victory in the campaign opener versus Türkiye, the Socceroos fell to defeat against tournament co-hosts the United States to set up a compelling final Group D match.
With both sides chasing automatic passage to the knockout rounds, Tony Popovic’s boys in green and gold will be hoping to bounce back at the first time of asking versus Paraguay on June 26 from noon.
Currently, both teams are level on three points in the group, with the US having already clinched its place in the round of 32 — leaving just a single automatic qualification slot available to the remaining teams.
With Türkiye eliminated, Australia will go through automatically if it can avoid defeat against Paraguay — having already tallied a superior goal difference to its next opponent.
However, there will be a sense of jeopardy surrounding the game, as the Socceroos look to ensure they evade having to gamble on qualification for the knockouts via the lottery of placing as one of the eight best-performing third-placed sides from the groups.
Last time out, the FIFA World Cup live screening event proved a major hit with attendees.
Fans can take in all the action in Australia’s final Group D clash against Paraguay at Shepparton Showgrounds, with doors set to open at 11am.
This will be an alcohol-free event, with food trucks selling refreshments for those present, with the game set to be shown on a big screen inside the showgrounds’ multi‑purpose pavilion.
Entry is free and accessible parking is available on-site, while attendees are encouraged to bring their own chairs, picnic rugs, or blankets for seating.
“Bring your friends and family, wear your Socceroos colours, and enjoy the match on the big screen, with a range of food trucks and a great community atmosphere,” Greater Shepparton City Council said.
“This event has been made possible thanks to Greater Shepparton City Council's partnership with the Victorian State Government.
“We’re grateful to the Victorian Government for providing this opportunity to once again bring our community together to support the Socceroos on the world stage.”
City of Greater Shepparton Mayor Shane Sali expressed his excitement as he looked forward to welcoming soccer fans to the showgrounds.
“After the incredible success of the last event, which saw more than 700 people come together, it was an opportunity we simply couldn’t pass up,” he said.
“The atmosphere was fantastic, and we’re excited to recreate that experience for the midday clash against Paraguay.
“There’s something special about sharing these moments as a community, and we encourage everyone to come along and be part of it.
“We’ll all be behind the Socceroos, hoping they can secure a win or draw to lock in second spot in the group and progress automatically.”
You can join the Facebook event for more updates here.
