Considering Australia's pretty terrible form recently, I'd be surprised if we end up matching our performance from 2011. Although I still remember the heartbreak of losing that final
With Kruse back in the squad from injury though I reckon we should still do decently. I'd say ideally we should make it out of the group stage at the very least, but Oman and Kuwait have both tripped us up in the past, and South Korea are an extremely strong side, so... We definitely should make it through but I reckon tonight's result will play a pretty big role in determining that.
Actually in addition to South Korea and Japan, which people have mentioned, I reckon Iran has a pretty strong squad - I'll be interested to see how they go as well.
Have to agree there, but I will say, there's a bit of unpredictability about this side. The old cast are all gone (well except for Bresciano and Cahill).
At Gk we're solid, Langerack and Ryan have been having very good seasons (especially Langerack, has been given a string of games for Dortmund recently)
In defence Chris Herd reaching full fitness is a massive plus, I am the biggest Chris Herd fan, he has it all. I'm a little concerned though, it's a very young defence. No real recognized names playing in top tier leagues except for J.Davidson who himself competes with that Belgian LB at Westbrom.
Midfield very solid, I like Jedinak and Milligan in there bashing and crashing + they can play with their feet too. Bit of creativity and youth in there with Triosi (who makes things happen) and Antonis who I'm very happy made the squad.
Up top we've got some pace which we haven't always been accustomed to having.
Korea vs Australia is definitely the key game, we've got to win that.
I definitely think that we have some sort of chance to go decently far in the tournament, home crowds should also be a factor in that but I'm not too sure though. This team will be hot or cold.