The Olyroos' chances in tomorrow's crunch game against the Ivory Coast hang in the balance, as key players Archie Thompson and Ruben Zadkovich battle to overcome injury.
Thompson is unlikely to play after suffering a knock to the ankle in Sunday's 1-0 loss to heavyweight's Argentina, while Zadkovich is a better chance of playing, but is nursing a groin strain that is likely to require painkillers if he does take the field.
Perth striker Nikita Rukavytsa is likely to fill the void up front in Thompson is ruled out.
Skipper Mark Milligan is also struggling to shake off the effects of a kick to the calf he sustained against Serbia, but is a certain starter against the Ivorians.
A win against the Ivory Coast may not even be enough to secure the Aussie's a passage through to the quarter finals, with Argentina needing to secure at least a draw against Serbia to ensure the Olyroos advance.
If Australia and Serbia both win, second place in the group will be decided on goal difference.
Olyroos coach Graham Arnold indicated his side will not hold back in their pursuit of a spot in the final eight.
"We have to go into the game full of confidence after that performance of our own. We have to attack," Arnold told News Limited.
