The excitement is building as we get closer to opening match of the 2010 World Cup. The Great Tournament is less than a month away and the anticipation of the 1st African World Cup is building, its going to be great. Its time for Group D to take the stage on the Simply Futbol WC Team Breakdowns, beginning with The Aussies.

Official Name: Football Federation Australia



Nickname: Socceroos

FIFA Confederation: AFC (Asia)

FIFA Code: AUS

How They Qualified: 1st place in Group 1 of Asian Final Stage Qualifying

World Cup Appearances (Including 2010): 3

Best WC Finish: Round of 16, Germany 2006

World Cup Record (MP: Wins - Draws - Losses): 7: 1W - 2D - 4L

Head Coach: Pim Verbeek

Most Capped Player (# of caps): Alex Tobin (87)

All-Time Goal Scoring Leader (# of goals): Damian Mori (29)

Brief Footballing History:
The Aussies were the dominant team in Oceania with their biggest accomplishment coming in 2001 as part of the Oceania Football Confederation. In the 2001 FIFA Confederations Cup, the Socceroos finished 3rd in the tournament defeating Brazil in the 3rd place match.

Seeking more respect and prestige on the world football stage, Australia moved to the Asian Football Confederation in late 2006. Australia has adapted well to competition in Asia quickly becoming a force. The Socceroos has shown their power by qualifying for both 2007 & 2011 Asian Cups and qualifying for the 2010 World Cup in dominant, unbeaten fashion.

Player To Watch:
The Aussies have a good combination of youth and experience heading into the World Cup and one of the Socceroos youngsters could have a major role in South Africa, he is James Holland.

Photo by Mark Dadswell/Getty Images Sport
The 21-year old AZ Alkmaar midfielder is ready to step up to the senior squad after gaining some international experience at the youth levels. He will be counted on to bring some young legs to the Socceroos midfield. His role in central midfield linking the defense with the attack will be crucial in a group where the midfields are the strength of the teams.

Outlook:
The Aussies should be confident of advancing out of the group, especially after they advanced to the Round of 16 in Germany 2006. The biggest concern for the Socceroos is their attack and who will score goals. If the Australians can get consistent goal scoring, they have the experience and tactics to get into the Round of 16 and possibly the quarterfinals.

WC Group Schedule:
June 13 vs. Germany
June 19 vs. Ghana
June 23 vs. Serbia

Next team up are the powerful Germans.