USA Clinch Group D With One Game Spare as Three Teams Scrap for Second

State of Group D — Matchday 3 Preview

The good news for American fans: the US is through. Six points from three games, including two wins and a healthy plus-four goal difference, means Gregg Berhalter's side has already punched its ticket to the Round of 16. That's one less thing to sweat heading into the final matchday.

The drama, however, is very much alive behind them. Australia and Paraguay are deadlocked at four points apiece, separated only by a two-goal swing in goal difference. Turkey sits one point back at three, meaning a win combined with a slip from either team above them keeps their tournament alive.

For bettors, the second-place race is the play. Australia and Paraguay meet directly on Matchday 3, making that a virtual knockout match regardless of the result elsewhere. A draw benefits both over Turkey, so expect pragmatic soccer — and consider the draw at likely attractive odds. Turkey needs a win and help, making them a risky but live long shot.

With the US already safe, watch for rotation from Berhalter, which could open value on their Matchday 3 opponent depending on the line movement heading into kickoff.