Belgium, Egypt, and Australia Advance to World Cup Knockout Stage

Belgium and Egypt qualified for the World Cup knockout stage. Egypt will play Australia in the round of 32. Australia reached the round of 32 after a 0-0 draw with Paraguay at San Francisco Bay Area Stadium.

The match stayed physical and low-scoring. Australia controlled much of the first half but failed to convert several attacks into goals. A forward set up a teammate inside the penalty area early, yet the shot went straight to the Paraguay goalkeeper.

Additional attempts from the right side drew saves. Paraguay improved after halftime and created better opportunities through an energetic midfielder. One low shot from distance flashed wide eight minutes from time.

In the closing minutes Australia nearly scored when a player split two defenders and fired just past the far post. A late Paraguay effort from the edge of the area was saved. The draw placed Australia second in Group D behind the United States.

Paraguay finished the group stage with four points and must wait to learn whether it advances among the eight best third-placed teams.