Brazil is ready and waiting for the world to arrive on its doorstep Photo: www.webchronique.com
Australia’s potential at giving the 2014 FIFA World Cup a run for its money has been given the biggest possible challenge it could face following the result of the draw that determined its Group B opponents on Saturday.
The finalists of the previous tournament, Spain and Holland – two of the biggest teams in world football – have been drawn alongside Australia. And to add further mayhem to the group, South America’s most in form team Chile has been drawn as well, making Group B one to watch with keen interest for the neutral.
The biggest positive to come out of such a draw is that Australia can now pit its efforts against the best on the world’s biggest stage. This presents an opportunity to discover what can be achieved and what needs to be done to compete against the more prominent opponents and win.
Such prestigious opponents will draw focus on the Socceroos at the tournament which will have a very positive knock on effect and help the nation reveal its true colours as a footballing entity. The world’s top scouts will be able to see what our players are capable of and learn about our youth development, A-League competition and even the fantastic coaches that are starting to emerge.
So despite the fact that many are tipping the Socceroos to finish 3rd or 4th in the group, the long-term advantages and benefits will far outweigh that result. Besides, Australia has a long history of punching above its weight in sport and the World Cup is known for producing unexpected surprises.
You never know what could happen at next year’s tournament.
FIFA World Cup 2014
Group A – Brazil, Croatia, Mexico, Cameroon
Group B – Australia, Spain, Netherlands, Chile
Group C – Colombia, Greece, Ivory Coast, Japan
Group D – Uruguay, Costa Rica, England, Italy
Group E – Switzerland, Ecuador, France, Honduras
Group F – Argentina, Bosnia-Herzigovina, Iran, Nigeria
Group G – Germany, Portugal, Ghana, USA
Group H – Belgium, Algeria, Russia, South Korea
