FIFA World Cup 2018 Draw - Fans View: Australia

Published on: 03 December 2017

Kuala Lumpur: After successfully navigating an exhausting qualifying campaign, Australia are set to make their fourth successive appearance at a FIFA World Cup in 2018. They now know who their opponents in Russia will be, after the group stage draw placed the Socceroos alongside France, Denmark and Peru in Group C.

Socceroos fan Paul Marcuccitti stayed up late into the night to watch the draw proceedings and spoke to the-AFC.com about his thoughts after learning his country's fate.

Q: How do you rate your opponents in Group C? 

A: None of the teams can be underestimated, but there's no doubt that France will be Australia's toughest opponents.

They were runners-up in the European Championships last year and are one of the favourites to win the World Cup next year.

The question is, will playing France in the first game be an advantage or a disadvantage for the Socceroos.

Peru and Denmark are the other teams in the group and they're also strong. Both teams are undefeated in 2017.

Q: Which player are you most worried about facing?

A: France are a star-studded side and Antoine Griezmann might be the player that causes the Socceroos the most difficulty.

His technique and movement will be difficult for the Australian defence to deal with. He's a versatile and complete attacking player.

Q: How would you rate your team's chances in light of the draw?

A: It's going to be extremely difficult for Australia to make it out of this group. But I'm always confident that the Socceroos can exceed expectations and I give them a chance of reaching the Round of 16.

Group stage schedule

France v Australia

16 June 2018 (13:00)

Kazan Arena

Denmark v Australia

21 June 2018 (16:00)

Samara Stadium

Australia v Peru

26 June 2018 (17:00)

Fisht Stadium

Photos: Lagardère Sports

Source: the-afc.com

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website.
Learn more