Australia's Fighting Spirit Against Italy on Monday at the FIFA World Cup

Australia's fighting spirit at the 2006 FIFA World Cup in Germany.

Harry Kewell who scored the vital equaliser against Croatia said it was Australia's fighting spirit that had taken them to the FIFA World Cup second round for the first time.

"It just goes to show our fighting spirit. We kept attacking and creating lots of chances."

"If it wasn't me it was going to be someone else who scored. It's perfect for us, a lot of people didn't think we would get through the first stage. We left it a little bit late but we got there."

Coach Guus Hiddink said; "This was a terrific game. It shows why the beautiful game is so exciting. This team has a lion's heart, to fight until the end. They are very competitive, they never give up whatever happens."

Striker Mark Viduka added: "What a great game tonight, you could not ask for more."

"It's very difficult when you cop a goal that early but we knew if we kept our composure we could do some damage. We showed we had the spirit to do it."

Zlatko Kranjcar, the Croatian coach, said: "I think my team played the best they can but we failed to get the result we needed. It was a dramatic and dynamic match and we missed our chances. I want to congratulate Australia."

Australia is hoping that their fighting spirit will be just enough to fend off a tough Italy team in their 2006 FIFA World Cup match on Monday.

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