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The entire nation is still unsure how to feel about going into a World Cup knock out match that it can realistically win.
"It's weird not playing with absolutely nothing to lose and zero pressure on getting a result" explained longtime Socceroos fan Con Toupolitsis (55)
After heartbreak to eventual champions Italy in 2006, and a competitive loss to eventual champions Argentina in 2022, Australia is getting nervous about the upcoming round of 32 clash against the Egyptians.
"For once we've drawn a beatable team and for some reason I'm more nervous then I've ever been."
Australian fans admit they're far more familiar with the comforting routine of convincing themselves that a miracle is possible before graciously accepting defeat to a football superpower.
This week, however, supporters have been forced into the unfamiliar position of spending six straight days saying things like, "If we stay composed , disciplined, and manage to shut down Salah, we should be in with a good shot"
The phrase has reportedly made thousands of Australians feel physically ill.
Social gatherings that would normally be full of carefree optimism have instead become unlikely strategy conversations with blokes who hadn't heard of half the squad a fortnight ago suddenly debating whether Australia should start two holding midfielders.
"I honestly preferred playing France" admitted Con.
"You could just enjoy the occasion, applaud the boys for having a crack and move on with your life."
"But if we lose this one, I'll spend the next four years wondering what could've been."
