World Cup Football Boots: Australia

Fifa Ranking: 20

Group: D:

Australian football boots

The Socceroos qualified for the 2010 World Cup at a cruise, although is was a made easier this time around as they faced Asia teams as opposed to Oceania (no South Americans, but the likes of Bahrain, Oman and Japan). That said, in the final round they remained unbeaten over eight games, five points clear of Japan!

Key Players

Mark Schwarzer and Tim Kahill.

Veteran keeper Mark Schwarzer will be hoping to continue his fine club form demonstrated at Fulham last season. Now regarded amongst the best around, he going to be hard to beat and will be organising and cajoling the Australian defence to stand firm.

With no Mark Viduka any more, Harry Kewell could be the main man up top although Josh Kennedy is an alternative. But the goals could come from midfield where the creative force of Tim Cahill will be pulling the Australian strings.

The Gaffer

Pim Verbeek had a World Cup apprenticeship under Guus Hiddink for South Korea during 2002 and continued on with the Koreans after Hiddink’s tenure. Since taking over as Australian head coach he has guided the Socceroos to the World Cup with ease. He has a good relationship with the squad and plays to their strengths.

Prediction – Group stage exit

Australia Squad Football Boots