Against the odds, Australia reached the World Cup Round of 16 for just the second time in their history.
Despite a heavy loss to France in their opening match, the Socceroos rebounded to record 1-0 wins against Tunisia and Denmark to finish second in Group D.
However, their unlikely run came to an end in the knockout stage when they were defeated by two-time World Cup winners Argentina.
Whilst overall team effort and defensive organisation helped them record back-to-back group stage victories for the first time ever, there were also a number of notable individual performances.
The Sporting News takes a look at some standout Socceroos who could have earned themselves a club transfer off the back of the tournament.
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Harry Souttar
Arguably Australia's best player of the tournament, Harry Souttar was a rock in defence.
His size, presence and timing were key to the Socceroos picking up two crucial clean sheets.
Remarkably, the 6'5" centre-back had been recovering from a serious knee injury for the majority of 2022, returning to the field just one month before the opening clash with France.
Currently plying his trade at Championship side Stoke City, there has been plenty of talk regarding a potential move to the English Premier League.
Souttar's club last year shared that they would not sell the 24-year-old defender for less than 20 million pounds (AU$35 million), but after his dominant performances in Qatar, it's hard to imagine he won't be picked up by a top-flight side.
Waited for 48 years for a #FIFAWorldCup clean sheet.
— Socceroos (@Socceroos) November 30, 2022
Now got two in two 🧤😏#Socceroos #GiveIt100 pic.twitter.com/lbhyichaF4
Maty Ryan
After departing Brighton and Hove Albion in 2021, Mathew Ryan has played for three different clubs.
The 30-year-old goalkeeper and Socceroos captain enjoyed a short loan stint at his childhood favourite club Arsenal, before spending the next season as a second-choice 'keeper at Real Sociedad.
He now plays for FC Kobenhavn, but has only made six appearances for the Danish club, with his agent confirming he will look for another move in January.
Ryan's leadership qualities and performances in Qatar - particularly his clean sheets against Tunisia and Denmark - show that he deserves a starting role on a strong team.
Whilst his mistake against Argentina resulted in a goal, he responded positively to keep his side in the game.
Mitch Duke
Mitch Duke's impressive header against Tunisia secured Australia their first World Cup win since 2010.
The striker's inclusion in the starting side was questioned by some, but the 31-year-old forward proved any doubters wrong with consistent strong showings this tournament.
He currently plays in the second division of Japanese football, scoring eight goals and notching four assists this year.
With his family based in the United Kingdom, his standout performance in the Socceroos' second match could earn him a move there with aerial ability no doubt attractive to Championship clubs.
Kye Rowles
His defensive partner Harry Souttar may have dominated the headlines during the tournament, but Kye Rowles' performances for the Socceroos in Qatar deserve praise.
The Heart of Midlothian player put on a top performance against Denmark, winning all four of his duels and not being dribbled past once, per Sofascore.
With his current club contract expiring next year, there is likely to be some interest in the rising centre-back.
As for the national team, both Rowles and Souttar are 24, so Australian fans can feel confident in their defence for some time.
Riley McGree
Brought into the starting side in place of the injured Ajdin Hrustic, Riley McGree has made the attacking midfield position his own this tournament.
He had arguably his best performance of this World Cup against Denmark, sparking a number of dangerous counter-attacks.
The 24-year-old has three years remaining on his contract at Middlesbrough and is unlikely to depart the Championship side he has already played 21 games for this season.
However, his stocks will certainly go up and put him on some other teams' radars.
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Craig Goodwin
The scorer of Australia's shock opening goal against France, Craig Goodwin has put himself on the world football stage.
Despite this, a move away from Adelaide United is hard to imagine with the 30-year-old contracted to the A-League Men club until the end of the 2024/25 season.
