Four Australian defenders face the possibility of suspension ahead of the Socceroos’ final group-stage match at the FIFA World Cup, but the coaching staff says the threat of yellow card accumulation will not influence their lineup decisions.

With the crucial encounter against Paraguay scheduled for Friday at noon AEST in Oakland, assistant coach Paul Okon confirmed that the starting eleven remains undecided two days before kickoff. Defenders Harry Souttar, Jacob Italiano, Alessandro Ciricati, and Jordan Bos each received a yellow card during Australia’s most recent match against the United States. Accumulating another caution in the upcoming game would render any of them ineligible for the Round of 32 should the Socceroos advance.

Despite this, Okon stated that the team is determined to avoid allowing disciplinary concerns to shape their approach. “At times it can be tricky when you’re aware you might be one tackle away from a yellow, but the players have enough experience and sensibility to manage those situations,” he said. The coaching staff has discussed the issue, noting that it may become a factor depending on the flow and result of the match, but it is not presently a key consideration.

Cam Burgess remains the only starting defender without a booking. Although he suffered an own goal against the USA, Okon expressed confidence in Burgess’s ability to recover swiftly and contribute effectively in the next fixture. The comments suggest the defensive lineup may see continuity, though at least one change is certain due to the injury withdrawal of veteran Mat Leckie.

Leckie, participating in his fourth World Cup, sustained a leg injury during the game versus the United States and has missed training sessions since. Okon described the absence as unfortunate and noted that Leckie’s future in the tournament would depend on both recovery and how far the team progresses.

The attacking unit remains a subject of debate among supporters, many of whom are eager to see players Nestory Irankunda, Mo Toure, and Cristian Volpato receive starting roles. However, Okon emphasized that selection decisions involve multiple considerations beyond public preference, including the players’ physical condition, mental readiness, and tactical fit within the team’s strategy.

Entering the match, the Socceroos hold over a 90 percent chance of advancing from their group, with a draw or win against Paraguay sufficient to secure passage to the knockout stage. The outcome of Friday’s game will determine Australia’s positioning and momentum heading into the Round of 32.