The Socceroos believe their fitness can prove a point of difference at the World Cup, allowing them to "suffer" against top opponents then come out on top.
That's the view of right wing-back Jacob Italiano after Australia bounced back from a tough start against Switzerland to claim a 1-1 draw in San Diego on Saturday (Sunday AEST).
"When you have really quality players (as opponents), it is difficult at times," Italiano said.
"But I think that we showed that the work we put in, the fitness levels, the intensity levels we have, when maybe it starts to get a bit leggier, the other team slows down a little bit.
"The last game against Mexico and today, we've shown that we're really, really fit.