Playing in the group B fixture, the Socceroos were up against some of the best national teams in the world, including Chile, the Netherlands and Spain.
Chile versus Australia
A tough match in Cuiaba to say the least; the Socceroos copped a hard blow when 2 goals were scored against them in the first 15 minutes of the match. Giving it all they had, they regained their composure and fought back strongly, applying a lot of pressure to get back in the game.
Cahill, the talisman of the Socceroos restored their hope, scoring his fourth World Cup goal at the 35-minute mark. Not long after he scored a second time in order to level the playing field, but the goal as ruled as offside. With a one-goal difference, Australia kept Chile on their toes and sought to turn the game around. They stayed focused and put in hard efforts, looking likely to score an equalizer but Jean Baeusejour sealed the win for Chile with the third and final goal of the match.
Losing their opening match against Chile 3-1, the Socceroos had one last chance against the Netherlands to make it through to the second round.
Netherlands versus Australia
What an incredible game to watch! Playing against one of the world's best national teams, Australia had their work set out for them after the Netherlands' 5-1 victory over Spain in their opening match.
With both teams playing a quick counter attack, Australia's defence had to be fast and ready, however they slipped up as Arjen Robben made his way through and scored the first goal of the match.
Within a minute Tim Cahill scored a left-footed volley levelling the score and leaving the Netherlands surprised, as they clearly weren't ready for the Australian onslaught. Not long after Mile Jedinak scored a penalty goal putting Australia in the lead 2-1.
The Netherlands stepped up their game, having gained composure and played a much more dominating second half. Van Persie swiftly took control as he brought the Netherlands back into the game, and a long shot from Memphis Depay put the Netherlands in front 3-2, taking home the win and going through to the second round.
Australia versus Spain
Not making it through to the second round, Australia had one last chance to claim a victory and finish off the tournament on a positive note. Going into the match, the Socceroos had some hope against Spain who, although they were defending World Champions, were flogged by the Netherlands 5-1, and defeated by Chile 2-0. With both teams fighting it out to win a game this World Cup, Spain took their last opportunity to get their head back in the game and prove their worth to the world, taking down the Socceroos 3-0.
Despite the unfortunate ending for the Socceroos, they proved their mettle to the world in their overall performance during the World Cup. Not only were they thrust into the deep end with some tough competition, as an inexperienced young team they showed a lot of talent and determination, which has made the nation proud.
Next up for the Socceroos is the Asian Cup early next year on home turf.
Annemarie de Villiers is studying sports science and has a dream to be a sports scientist for a professional club. Born in South Africa, raised in New Zealand and tertiary professionally qualified in Melbourne Australia.
Annemarie de Villiers' previous articles may be viewed at www.pressserviceinternational.org/annemarie-de-villiers.html