Overview
- Group D features the United States, Paraguay, Australia and an undecided playoff qualifier for the 2026 World Cup.
- On a FOX Soccer podcast, Donovan criticized Tony Popovic's "satisfied" reaction to the draw and forecast Australia in fourth place.
- Donovan, joined by Cobi Jones and Brad Guzan, predicted the U.S. to top the group with the prospective playoff winner Turkey in second and Paraguay in third, noting the playoff spot is not settled.
- Popovic has maintained an upbeat outlook, saying the Socceroos can advance and warning that underestimating Australia would be a mistake.
- U.S. pundits including Alexi Lalas, Mike Grella and Charlie Davies characterized the draw as favorable for the hosts, while the U.S. beat Australia 2–1 in an October friendly; the tournament runs June 11 to July 19, 2026.