Harry Kewell scored a dramatic equaliser as Australia made history by reaching the last 16 of the World Cup with a 2-2 draw against Croatia at the Gottlieb Daimler Stadium.

Kewell, one of two changes from the team that lost to Brazil, struck with 11 minutes to play to set up a meeting with European powerhouse Italy on Monday.

Australia finished second in their group behind South America's world No. 1 Brazil.

Socceroos captain Mark Viduka said it was an amazing way for the team to qualify for the final 16.

"What a game tonight, you could not ask for more," said Viduka.

"It's very difficult when you cop a goal that early in the game but we kept our composure and knew we could do them some damage and we did that. We conceded another goal and it was an uphill battle again but we showed all the spirit to do that."

Viduka praised Kewell, who was named man of the match, for a perfect winner to put Australia through to the next stage.

"We threw out all the forwards to try and get a goal and thank God Harry was in the right place at the right time and it was a beautiful goal," said Viduka.

"It was such an end-to-end game, they had a few chances towards the end but we had a little luck on our side but I think we earned it today."

Asked by a reporter what was the method behind his magical turn with small teams at the World Cup, Hiddink said: "This team underestimated its own power because of Australia's failure to qualify in the past. But the Aussies are very open and coachable and I knew immediately after taking the job that they could cope with the demands of international football.


We now get to play Italy, a team our coach guided his former charges (Korea) to victory over in the last world cup.....

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