Australia will be looking for their first World Cup knockout victory when they take on Egypt in the round of 32 tonight.
The two teams meet at Dallas Stadium, having both finished as runners-up in their respective groups.
Tony Popovic’s Socceroos came second behind co-hosts the USA on four points in Group D, while Egypt were pipped to top spot in Group G on goal difference by Belgium.
The winner of tonight’s tie will take on either holders Argentina or tournament debutants Cape Verde in the round of 16.
With history potentially beckoning, Standard Sport has assessed who to look out for in the Australia squad…
Patrick Beach
Entered World Cup folklore after Spanish broadcaster Telemundo’s passionate pronunciation of his surname. The 22-year-old goalkeeper has played every minute for the Socceroos at this tournament.
Alessandro Circati
Italian-born defender who is one of four players not to have missed a moment for Australia at the World Cup so far. Will be tasked with stopping Egypt’s wealth of attacking talent.
Harry Souttar
You can’t miss this giant of a centre-back. Scotland-born Souttar will be familiar to English Championship fans after spells with Leicester, Sheffield United and Stoke.
Cameron Burgess
He and Souttar were both born in Aberdeen, though Burgess moved to Australia when he was 11 years old. Currently plays for Swansea.
Lucas Herrington
The youngest player in Australia’s squad, he didn’t look out of place as he started and helped keep a clean sheet in the final group game against Paraguay. The 18-year-old centre-back has a bright future.
Connor Metcalfe
Sealed all three points in the opening game as he netted Australia’s second goal in their 2-0 win over Turkey. Currently plies his club trade alongside Socceroos team-mate Jackson Irvine at German side St. Pauli.
Paul Okon-Engstler
The Belgian-born midfielder is considered one of the brightest talents in this young Australian team.
Jackson Irvine
The moustachioed midfielder is one of the more recognisable faces in Australia’s squad, though he is not the first name on the teamsheet.
Aiden O'Neill
A pivotal part of Australia’s team. The New York City FC midfielder has played every minute at this World Cup so far. Started his career at Oldham and made four Premier League appearances for Burnley as a teenager.
Nestory Irankunda
Australia will be pinning their hopes on Watford’s brilliant young forward. Announced himself with a superb turn of pace and finish to open the scoring against Turkey.
Has been quiet since then as Australia have failed to score in successive games.
