Tomi Juric (3 starts) – 6.5: A consistent figure in the changing Socceroos line-up, Juric had a passable but not outstanding campaign. He nabbed a tap-in against Germany, was hacked mercilessly against Cameroon and was largely anonymous in attack against Chile, but defended from the front in all three matches.

Robbie Kruse (2 starts, 1 substitute appearance) – 7: Kruse, rumoured to be on the verge of a return to Germany at club-level, brought attacking spark as a half-time substitute against Die Mannschaft. He created chances against both Cameroon and Chile, justifying his return to the starting line-up. But Kruse was less comfortable in defence, evidently still adjusting to Postecoglou’s new system.

Robbie Kruse

Jamie Maclaren (1 substitute appearance) – 5.5: Recent Darmstadt signing Maclaren can consider himself slightly unlucky that his only run in Russia was in the closing minutes of the encounter with Chile, as Australia chased the two goals needed for a semi-final spot. Maclaren blazed one chance wide, but otherwise looked energetic as he harried the Chilean back line.

Mitch Langerak, Danny Vukovic, Ajdin Hrustic, Dylan McGowan, James Jeggo – N/A: Reserve keepers Langerak and Vukovic were never going to replace Ryan given his stellar form. Hrustic, McGowan and Jeggo, with two caps between them, were predominantly brought along for the experience.

Ange Postecoglou – 6.5: Assessing Postecoglou’s performance is no easy feat. The manager pulled off a tactical masterstroke against Chile, and deserves plaudits for that achievement. Yet ultimately Australia go home without a win, without a semi-final spot and without a clear idea of their best team heading into two pivotal World Cup qualifiers. Postecoglou is reportedly off to Greece for a short holiday. After two weeks of constant football and media criticism, he has certainly earned the break.

The author wishes to thank Lucy Zelic of SBS Television for her input in the preparation of this article.