The Socceroos will open their ambitious Confederations Cup campaign against reigning World Cup winners Germany on Tuesday morning (AEST).
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With Australia less than convincing in their recent outings as they look to scrape their way to the 2018 World Cup, the Socceroos will be desperate to impress in Russia.
Here's everything you need to know ahead of their first group game:
Who are they playing?
Australia will play Germany first up. The 2014 World Cup winners are currently ranked third in the world but have thankfully left the majority of their big names behind as they look to blood younger players in the tournament. Unfortunately for the Socceroos, Germany remains a side to be reckoned with considering they won their last game against San Marino 8-0.
When will it be played?
The game will kick-off on Tuesday June 20 at 1am (AEST).
Where is it being held?
Russia is warming up for the 2018 World Cup by playing hosts to this event with this match set to take place at the Fisht Stadium in Sochi.
How can I watch?
If you're willing to stay up past your bedtime, you can catch all the action on SBS or online via Optus Sport.
How will the Socceroos go?
Let's not beat around the bush, anything less than a thrashing would be a pleasant surprise. The Socceroos are still adjusting to a new formation and after being hammered 4-0 by Brazil may be a little rattled. Incidentally, a 4-0 score-line in favour of Germany is quite likely considering that was the outcome when the pair met at the 2010 World Cup. Australia do have goals in them however with Tomi Juric and Tim Cahill likely suspects to at least pinch a goal for the Socceroos. Amidst all this pessimism, it is important to note the Socceroos have only lost 1 of their past 19 matches and could well have an upset in them.
Previous meetings?
Australia have done quite well against Germany in recent years with their last match, a friendly in 2015, ending 2-2. Prior to this, the Socceroos claimed their one and only win against the Germans courtesy of a 2-1 friendly victory in 2011.
Squads?
Here's how the two teams will likely line-up-
Australia: Mat Ryan; Bailey Wright, Milos Degenek, Trent Sainsbury; Mark Milligan, Aaron Mooy, Aziz Behich, Mathew Leckie; Jackson Irvine, Tom Rogic, Tomi Juric.
Germany: Bernd Leno; Joshua Kimmich, Matthias Ginter, Antonio Rudiger, Jonas Hector; Emre Can, Julian Brandt, Leon Goretzka, Lars Stindl, Julian Draxler; Sandro Wagner.
Remaining group games?
The Socceroos will next face Cameroon before a final group clash against Chile who themselves beat Cameroon 2-0 in the first game of the group.
What even is the Confederations Cup?
Good question, the Confederations Cup is held every four years and sees the World Cup winners, most recent FIFA confederation champions and the host country all compete in what is often seen as a prelude to the World Cup. Now in its tenth year, Australia has earned a spot at the competition after winning the Asian Cup in 2015.
