Speaking to au.fourfourtwo.com about the three pre-World Cup warm-up games against New Zealand, then Denmark and USA in South Africa, the Socceroos captain warned that the Kiwi encounter is more about the first steps of pre-tournament preparation.

"The game against New Zealand will be played at an intense level, but it might also be a game we won't go 100 percent in, as we would have only just got off flights or only had a few days in the country," said Neill. "It is more of a spectacle for the fans to say thanks for all their support for four years. The first thing either team won't want to do is pick-up any injuries or be involved in any unsavory incidences that could affect a player's World Cup."

Despite the cautionary approach for the 24 May showpiece, Neill did add that the clash was an opportunity to tinker with new approaches.

"The New Zealand game might be about trying some things out, like different set-pieces or one or two different formations, plus getting some match fitness and getting used to each other again as we wouldn't have played with each other for a while."

The Socceroos will then fly out to South Africa, where pre-tournament ties against Denmark on 1 June and USA on 5 June will allow the team to fine tune for their first finals tie against global heavyweights Germany.

"We would have had another eight days of training together after the New Zealand game when the next game [Denmark] comes around, where we will be more like a team and more well oiled," said Neill. "Everybody is going to be playing to secure a starting spot or to secure a part of the manager's thinking."