The Socceroos are three points behind both Japan and Saudi Arabia in the automatic qualification spots with three games to play, meaning Thursday’s match looms as crucial.

Given the situation there’s been an assumption Saudi Arabia would happily play for a draw but their Dutch boss wouldn’t be drawn on their tactics.

PIC SPECIAL: Socceroos training in Adelaide

“I will not tell you what we’re going to do,” van Marwijk said.

“I think the big pressure is here on Australia. They fight for their last chance.

“I also know it won’t be easy. Australia is a strong team. A physical strong team and they play at home with 30-40-50,000 spectators.

“That’s an advantage for them but we’re not afraid. I always try to play in the same way.”

Saudi Arabia has a number of challenges heading into the game, including the fact their domestic league, where all except one of their squad plays their club football, finished up a month ago.

The national set-up organised a camp in Germany, before arriving in Adelaide a week in advance of Thursday’s qualifier to condition the squad.

The Green Falcons are also without talented winger Fawad Al Muwallad, striker Naif Hazazi and experienced defender Hassan Muath, while the players are observing Ramadan too.

“I respect the players and the people I work with if they want to do the Ramadan,” van Marwijk said.

“It’s their choice. If you have questions about those things you ask our team manager or president. I only give answers about the game.”

Hawsawi in action against Australia last October

On the training camp, van Marwijk added: “I’m used to preparing at 100 per cent. In this case it was very difficult.

“We hope we got everybody in the same condition before this game.”

A victory in Adelaide would practically mean Saudi Arabia have qualified for their fifth-ever World Cup and first since 2006.

Saudi Arabia captain Osama Hawsawi said the Dutchman had instilled confidence in the current squad and was full of praise for him.

“I still remember what coach van Marwijk told us in his first meeting with us when he took over with the national team a few years ago,” Hawsawi said.

“He said ‘with the quality of players you have you can compete with any team in the world. We’re a good group of players. We have our own qualities’.

“We’re preparing for a big opportunity. I hope we’ll make it.”

PIC SPECIAL: Socceroos training in Adelaide