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AAP
AAP
Sport
Anna Harrington

Socceroos boss insists big calls didn't lead to US loss

Socceroos coach Tony Popovic has defended his decision not to start Nestory Irankunda and Connor Metcalfe in Australia's 2-0 World Cup loss to the United States, despite lamenting a sluggish and lethargic showing.

Australia's hopes of straightforward progression to the round of 32 will come down to their final group match on Friday (AEST) after a nightmarish afternoon at Seattle Stadium.

Paraguay's gutsy 1-0 win over Turkey later on Friday (local time) means the Socceroos will finish second in their group if they secure a draw or win against the South Americans.

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