Australia's stand-in skipper Tim Cahill insists the Socceroos unsettled Chile, putting them under pressure and forcing them to play long balls in their absorbing clash overnight.
Cahill made his 100th appearance for Australia in the 1-1 draw with the Copa America champions in Moscow.
The veteran started in an unfamiliar attacking midfield role, behind Tomi Juric, as Australia rattled Chile and chased a two-goal victory.
PIC SPECIAL: Australia v Chile
Cahill said coach Ange Postecoglou's game-plan, and surprise selections, worked a treat against the might of La Roja's star-studded side.
“When you get in players faces, it doesn’t matter who they are, they are under pressure," he said.
“We caused them real problems and they had to resort to lumping the ball long. We are trying to change the way the game is played in Australia and I know people will be proud.
"They were the most difficult opponent we’ve faced and will probably go on to win the tournament.
“They are the hardest working team I’ve ever seen... I am proud of the boss.
"That’s the standards he is setting and we are so close to doing something special. The boss won’t waver and nor we will. We didn’t step backwards.
"There were a lot of changes … people will look at the side and think ’what’s going on? But I said before the tournament these players would get their chance.”
The Soccceroos had several strong opportunities to win the game, with Trent Sainsbury missing a close-range volley right before half-time and Jamie Maclaren wasting a decent chance in the second half.
Chile also had chances to grab a winner, with Mat Ryan solid in goal.
"If we’d taken those chances it could have 4-2, 3-1 or 3-3,” Cahill said.
“We’ll keep playing the same way … we’ll keep playing out from the back even if people call us crazy.”
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