Group D

The third host headlines Group D. The USA (CONCACAF) open at SoFi Stadium against Paraguay and, with home crowds behind them and a talented core, start as marginal favourites-though their pre-tournament form has been streaky enough to keep the group honest. Türkiye (UEFA) are the most likely challenger: a young, technically gifted side built around Arda Güler and Hakan Çalhanoğlu, capable of beating anyone when their rhythm clicks.

Paraguay (CONMEBOL) are the archetypal tournament nuisance-pragmatic, physical and hard to break down, the kind of team that drags favourites into low-scoring nights and pinches a goal from a set piece. Australia (AFC) are well-organised and durable under their settled set-up, but look a notch below the top three for attacking quality and will rely on discipline and game management.

How to predict it: this is one of the more balanced groups, with no team you can confidently dismiss. The host's draw is kind enough that USA and Türkiye are the logical pair to advance, but Paraguay's solidity makes them an obvious banana skin and a strong third-place candidate. Because three of these four are closely matched, third place here is likely to be competitive on points-a good group to target if you want a best-thirds qualifier with a realistic case.

Think you've read it right? Set your Group D order → Or head back to the full tournament guide.