The Socceroos are currently bottom of their group with just a single point and anything less than victory against Oman tomorrow night is unthinkable.

Pim Verbeek is relying on his big hitters to get the campaign back on track after a sluggish start to qualification.

The AZ Alkmaar man is adamant that the players view the Asian Cup with tremendous respect and recognise its importance.

Holman, who missed a late chance to secure victory in Saturday night's friendly against Holland, expects a tough challenge on Melbourne soil.

"We know the Asian Cup is massive. It's another huge stage to perform on," Holman told au.fourfourtwo.com. "Everyone recognises how important it is to be there and how important it is for Australian football."

Holman said European footballers relished the chance to star in the European Championships every four years and the same was true of Asia for the Socceroos.

"Wednesday night is a massive challenge but we are looking forward to it and we know how important this match is," Holman said.

Australia's first experience of the Asian Cup ended in disappointment with fingers pointed regarding over confidence ahead of the tournament.

Holman rejects that suggestion and feels the pain and disappointment can only fuel a much better crack if the Socceroos should book their spot for 2011.

He added:  "I don't think it was that (over confidence). It was going into unknown territory. It was a tough lesson to learn but a good lesson to learn. If we qualify, we would go into the next one a lot better informed and prepared."