Special talent': Popovic hails history-making Herrington as Socceroos book last-32 spot

Australia’s World Cup campaign took another step forward as Lucas Herrington helped the Socceroos secure a scoreless draw against Paraguay at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, booking a last-32 berth. Coach Tony Popovic praised the 18-year-old centre-half as a “special talent” after the youngest-ever Socceroo started when qualification was at stake. The result left Australia second in Group D with the knock-out tie set for Dallas at 4am on July 4 (AEST). The opponent will be determined by Group G, where Iran, Egypt, Belgium and New Zealand are still in contention to finish runners-up. Popovic said Australia dominated and that Herrington was calm despite making only four previous national-team starts. Paraguay’s qualification prospects were also strengthened by the draw.