In short, yes.

For that to happen, though, the spine of the team needs to play the game of their lives. And a bit of luck always helps, doesn't it?

Lydia Williams will need to have a blinder in goal. The tall and impressive keeper is likely to be busy. 

If she shows her undoubted quality, she will play a huge role in any such winning scenario. 

Coach Alen Stajcic has been playing around with formations in training games against China, NZ and Switzerland, but whether it's a 4-2-3-1 or a 4-3-3, the Green and Gold need playmaker superstar Katrina Gorry to find space in attacking pockets so she can get that all-important sight on goal – the AFC player of the year's long-range efforts will test Hope Solo in the US goal. She is Australia's potential match-winner.

Attacking gem Lisa De Vanna will not want to be forced to play with her back to the US goal. For Australia, they need her to turn markers, face the US goal and run at lightning speed at what could be a tiring US side late in the game. 

Her finishing and experience will be key but that explosive pace will also be massive if Australia is to start the World Cup on the right note. 

The Matildas have the weapons to hurt the US. But Australia’s central defensive midfield two or one – potentially Emily Van Egmond and/or Elise Kellond-Knight and Tameka Butt – will have to tirelessly shield the back four. Their communication will be very important as will the defenders behind them orchestrating the defensive effort when Australia does not have the ball (which is likely). 

Stajcic will have a decision to make in regards to the make-up of his midfield. While Gorry and van Egmond would seem certain starters, it will be interesting to see who fills the third spot in the middle of the park.

Kellond-Knight and Butt have the international experience although pocket-rocket Teresa Polias is another option.

Expect Heyman to lead the attack as the out and out central striker with co-captain De Vanna on one flank, Sam Kerr likely to fill the other spot having impressed in the 11-0 rout of Vietnam in side’s last friendly before leaving for Canada.