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World Cup 2018 power rankings

By James Dudko

RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL - JULY 13: Per Mertesacker of Germany holds the trophy a loft during the 2014 World Cup final match between Germany and Argentina at The Maracana Stadium on July 13, 2014 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL - JULY 13: Per Mertesacker of Germany holds the trophy a loft during the 2014 World Cup final match between Germany and Argentina at The Maracana Stadium on July 13, 2014 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images) /
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ANTALYA, TURKEY – MAY 30: Tim Cahill of Australia arrives during an Australian Socceroos training session at the Gloria Football Club on May 30, 2018 in Antalya, Turkey. (Photo by Robert Cianflone/Getty Images)
ANTALYA, TURKEY – MAY 30: Tim Cahill of Australia arrives during an Australian Socceroos training session at the Gloria Football Club on May 30, 2018 in Antalya, Turkey. (Photo by Robert Cianflone/Getty Images) /

28. Australia

The Socceroos haven’t generated much buzz entering the tournament. However, a batch of players familiar to Premier League audiences can make this team a surprise package in Russia.

Tim Cahill menaced English defenses in the air for years at Everton. The 38-year-old is still one of the notable names in this squad.

There are other worthy players, including Brighton goalkeeper Mat Ryan and Aston Villa midfielder Mile Jedinak, formerly of Crystal Palace. Another player to watch is Celtic’s Tom Rogic, an astute playmaker technically gifted enough to thrive between the lines.

While they lack goals up top, the Australians will be compact and smart in midfield and solid at the back. It could be enough to pinch some points in a tough Group C.

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