In a curious twist of fate typical of the FIFA World Cup™, Australia's opening opponents in a fierce-looking Group D here on South African soil are none other than Germany, host nation for the Socceroos' previous two finals trips in 1974 and 2006. Having reached the Round of 16 four years ago, the Aussies will be keen to repeat that feat, yet a group containing the three-time world champions – taking part in their 17th finals – as well as Serbia and Ghana leaves little margin for error.
