Australia and PSV Eindhoven coach Guus Hiddink was speaking to reporters after Leipzig's draw, appearing optimistic about Australia's chances of progressing to the World Cup 2006 knockout stages. When asked about what he thinks of World Champions Brazil being in the same group, he replied "We can not be concerned about this. We are happy."

"When we drew Brazil, there was a group of Australians who began to cheer as if we had just won 3-0. They taught me in Australia 'no worries mate' and sometimes I think it's too relaxed, but this team does not have many worries. Brazil is a clear favourite, no doubt about it, and the other three are more or less equal and they will fight for the second position."

"There is illusion, but sometimes illusion comes true, and mathematically it's possible but practically it's difficult. Of the strong opposition, I like Brazil the most; they are the favourites to win the tournament so it's nice to play them. I enjoy it very much, to play against a team that likes to play football, and they love the game like schoolboys."

"To be honest, the other teams don't have the depth to have a chance to win against Brazil but then I think it will be decided on the last game," Hiddink added. During the ceremony he was seated next to Brazil's coach Carlos Alberto Parreira and the climate between the two men seemed warm. However, when Australia was seeded in Brazil's group, he put his head between his hands, only to quickly get into an optimistic mood.

The last game Hiddink was referring to is the Australia v Croatia match, which is sensitive in a way because of some Australian players coming from a Croatian background and vice-versa. Australian captain Mark Viduka is of Croatian heritage and the same applies to some other Socceroos like Tony Popovic, Zeljko Kalac, Josip Skoko, Jason Culina and Andre Covic.

The recent defection of goalkeeper Joey Didulica, and defenders Ante Seric and Joe Simunic to Croatia has increased tensions between the two sides, and will hopefully prove a be good match to look forward to.

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