Australia is on the verge of making history in Germany, needing to salvage only a point from its last group game against Croatia on Friday morning in Stuttgart, to qualify for the second round of the World Cup.
With one game remaining, the Socceroos are still well placed to advance from group F. Croatia's 0-0 draw with Japan in Nuremberg earlier leaves the Socceroos in second place in their group. Despite a brave display in a 2-0 loss to World Champions Brazil, anything bar a loss will guarantee qualification for the Socceroos.
Australia coach Guus Hiddink said he was proud with the way his men approached the game against Brazil, and despite defeat, confidence is still high the Socceroos can advance to the next stage.
"The way the team acted during almost the whole game, we can be proud," the Dutchman said.
"We had two or three good opportunities, but we failed to make the goal.
"Brazil did not have the power to dominate the Australian team. But the morale is high [to qualify for the next round]."
Australia stretched the Brazilians on numerous occasions, with midfielder Jason Culina twice, and Marco Bresciano once, finding space near the area to shoot for goal.
In the second half the Socceroos missed some golden opportunities, with Harry Kewell wasting two chances, one a sitter. Mark Viduka had Dida scramble around his goal several times, whilst Bresciano's acrobatics almost provided the goal of the tournament.
In defence, centre back Lucas Neil was Australia's man-of-the-match, constantly frustrating the Brazilians with timely challenges. Full back Craig Moore was equally superb.
Hiddink's men thius Friday will need to be wary of a European side desperate for a win.
While Croatia has yet to score a goal in the tournament they have played well so far. They looked the better side against Brazil, and in their last clash with Japan, hit the post twice and missed a penalty.
However, despite possessing talent of the calibre of Josip Simunic, Igor Tudor and Dario Simic, Japan showed Croatia can look thin at times in defence.
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