“It has been hard to watch the games because Russians seated next to us want to talk about Australia and Crocodile Dundee,” laughs Patrick.

The Clarkes, whose brother Todd was a goalkeeper for the Socceroos in the 1970s, have been following the national team around Russia.

Speaking with FFT in Moscow, they emphasised how the visit had changed their preconceptions about the country.

“Russia has been fantastic,” says Patrick. “I had total trepidation before coming here, about whether the risk was worth it.

“I was worried about theft, the difficulty getting around, hooliganism. But our visit has been absolutely amazing.

“Russians have been incredibly friendly and there are helpful volunteers everywhere. We will be coming back.”

Confederations Cup: Fans pic special

Stadiums of the 2017 Confederations Cup

The stadium on Sochi

Coincidentally, their brother Todd played for Australia against the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR) on several occasions during his career.

Fans are not the only ones singing the tournament’s praises.

Speaking the day of the draw with Cameroon in Saint Petersburg, Socceroos defender Trent Sainsbury emphasised the quality of the infrastructure.

“The set-up they have here is unbelievable,” says the former Central Coast Mariner. “The field was a bit slippery underfoot [in Saint Petersburg], but the pitch in Sochi was probably one of the best I have ever played on.

“The stadium in Saint Petersburg is world class – next level stuff. Everything has been running very smoothly.”

Russian fans show their true colours ahead of the host country's match against Mexico

There have of course been teething problems – the finishing touches are still being applied to Saint Petersburg Stadium meaning construction materials litter the area, while most games have been well under capacity.

Overall, though, all signs bode well for Russia 2018.

“The World Cup will be great here and the fans will really enjoy it,” says Australia’s youthful wingback Alex Gersbach.

But Patrick, 53 and Jonathan, 62, have been less impressed by the Socceroos’ performances in Russia. They are also aggrieved by coach Ange Postecoglou’s resistance to criticism.

“I would like to send my travel bill to Football Federation Australia and ask them to refund me,” Jonathan jokes.

“Ange has to remember he doesn’t own the team.

“He represents Australia when coaching the team, and like any coach he has to be accountable. He has a responsibility to face the hard questions.”

Aussie fans celebrate a penalty equaliser against Cameroon

While the brothers do not intend to return next year for the World Cup, they are hopeful that the Socceroos successfully qualify so that other fans can enjoy a similar experience.

“If you are a football fan, the World Cup in Russia will be an incredible month,” Jonathan concludes.