After a stirring performance against Holland, Socceroo defensive midfielder Matt McKay says the Socceroos are coming together well as a unit, but he’s wary of playing a wounded Spain next week.
The Socceroos meet Spain in Curitiba next Monday (Tues 2am AEST) with both nations already out of contention to progress from Group B with no points from their first two group games.
The clash offers both sides a chance at redemption after a 3-2 loss to the Dutch by Australia in Porto Alegre, and a 2-0 defeat to Chile at the Maracana for the Spanish in their second group matches.
But with the Socceroos on a high after their impressive performance in losing to Holland, McKay, 31 senses the Socceroos are peaking at the right time to finally get some points on the board in Brazil.
“Everyone has really gelled and now it is about progression. Spain will be a good challenge.
"Spain are a special team and are still reigning world champions, and will want to make a statement against us,” the Brisbane Roar star said.
On Thursday, the players enjoyed a recovery session at the pool at their home base in Vitoria.
It was a chance to reflect on the incredible performance - and goal - by Tim Cahill – against a highly rated Dutch side.
“We had chances in the first and second half. When we were 2-1 up we had them on the back foot," said McKay.
“Ange was extremely proud of us but still disappointed we didn't get the result.
“We are here to win games. We made a statement to the world that we can play and have made Australia proud.
“I was delighted to be out there and wish that all players could get on the field at some stage.”
McKay, who played his first World Cup game against Holland, coming in for the injured Mark Milligan, was asked about Australia’s equalising goal by Tim Cahill.
A volley that has gone viral and earned plaudits from some of the biggest names in world football.
“How can you describe it?" he asked. "It was extremely special for Tim and us as a team."
And McKay had a message for the fans back in Australia who will get to see their heroes play in a major tournament at the start of 2015.
“We want to win the Asian Cup on home soil.”
Meanwhile, the Socceroos face Spain at the Arena da Baixada in Curitiba next Tuesday morning 2am AEST.
Have you signed up to receive Socceroos Insider – Daily?
Sign up now to receive our daily newsletter, delivered at 12pm AEST each day, featuring all the best news and videos direct from camp in Vitoria Brazil.
For exclusive Socceroo videos from inside the camp in Brazil, head to http://www.socceroos.com.au/videos
And don't forget to get social with the Socceroos
http://www.fb.com/Socceroos
http://www.twitter.com/Socceroos
http://instagram.com/Socceroos