text: australia who thinks they have played well? australia have played well who thinks they are doing better than the world expected. chance for round 16 any luck can progress further? how far do you think they will go. they have already done well, and after not being part of the world cup for 32 years, just to be here was a good performance.   i believe we favourites to get through to the 2nd round, due to the fact that we do not need to win. this tilts the chances slightly in our favour, but do not underestimate croatia, who have a tough team and are proven at the world cup (semi finalists in 1998 and have qualified every time they have attempted - 1998, 2002 and 2006)  australia will likely face italy, ghana or czech republic in the 2nd round (assuming they finish 2nd in their group, usa cannot top their group).   if they play czech republic, they will almost definately lose (although guus is a genius and a hate to write him off).  if they face italy, they will be massive underdogs. while italy don't look impressive, we know that they are famous for under performing.  if they face ghana, i believe we are favourites. that is not to underestimate ghana, who have a very good midfield and are extremely athletic. but we have some top defenders and are coached by the king.