Could rethinking the back three help?

Postecoglou’s divisive formation was again under the spotlight, after Germany made light work of wingbacks Aziz Behich and Mathew Leckie.

The first and third German goals came from movement on the flanks, the first witnessing particularly egregious defending as trio Milos Degenek, Trent Sainsbury and Bailey Wright left Stindl unmarked in the box.

Queried about his formation after the game, Postecoglou did little to improve his frosty relations with the press.

Milos Degenek & Trent Sainsbury under pressure

“It is not a three-man defence,” he snapped. “If you are going to ask questions about the tactical side of the game let’s do our homework.

“They certainly caused us some problems down the left-hand side and we had to make some adjustments at half-time, which I think helped us work better.”

Postecoglou has resisted calls in recent months for a return to the back four, but with the McGowan brothers on the bench might it be time for a reshuffle?

Australia v Germany pic special

There are positives ahead of Australia’s clash with Cameroon

It is not all doom and gloom for Socceroos supporters.

Rogic looked assured during his few opportunities, Kruse made a difference off the bench and Mat Ryan put in a typically competent performance.

Team talisman team Cahill, a late substitute, was keen to highlight the positives.

Mat Ryan kept Australia in the contest in the first half

“To score two goals away from home in a competition like this is exceptional,” he said. “I suppose it was a good game to watch!”

Such excuses might fly against the world champions, but the pressure is on the Socceroos ahead of their encounter with Cameroon (1am Friday AEST).

A win in Saint Petersburg is vital. Anything less, and the Socceroos will be exiting after the group stage.

Australia v Germany pic special