After a disappointing 2010 Australian Football will look to recover by producing a successful Asian Cup campiagn. However little known footballing nation India will look to stand in their way. With the momentum of a nation behind them India may just prove to be a tough obstacle for the Socceroos.Australian football has had a turbulent year, with a disappointing performance in the World Cup as well as a dismal bid for the 2022 World Cup bid, however a new coach in the form of Holger Osieck has seen major change in the Socceroos squad including the introduction of a new generation of Roos who will look to spark and inspired and agile performance.
Ranked 142nd in the FIFA International rankings India are not known for their footballing prowess, the euphoria surrounding the Asian Cup has boosted support for their footballing nation. Their participation in the Cup will certainly boost the support for football in their country.
Australian Team News: Australian come into the match at full strength. All their European stars are avaliable including Tim Cahill, Harry Kewell and Mark Schwazer. Captain Lucas Neil will also be avaliable to sure up defence, however his partners in the backline are still not known. Youngsters Tommy Oar and Robbie Kruse may get a chance to prove their worth for the national team.
India Team News: Indian sport headlines have been dominated by the news that their star footballer Bhaichung Bhutia may be out injured. But after a recovery during the week it is expected that he will start at least from the bench.
Australia's first match in the Asian Cup will prove to be little challenge for a side desperate to reign supreme in Asia
Prediction: Australia 4 - India 0
