Watching a 10-man Paraguay eliminate Turkey has given Jackson Irvine a reminder of why the Socceroos cannot afford to get caught napping in their World Cup face-off with the South Americans.
After their loss to the United States, the Socceroos face the world's 37th ranked side in their final group D match in Santa Clara on Thursday (Friday AEST) with everything to gain.
Win or draw, and Tony Popovic's charges will finish second and head to Dallas to face the group G runners-up -- one of Belgium, Egypt, Iran or New Zealand.
Lose, and Australia face a nervous wait to discover if they're one of eight best third-placed teams to progress.
The only problem? Australia have struggled against South American opposition.
