Even a win won’t guarantee Australia a place in the round of 16, and they’ll be hoping group leaders France can do them a favour against Denmark in the simultaneous fixture.

Here are the different scenarios that could play out if Australia beat Peru in Sochi.

Scenario one – Denmark beat or draw with France

The Danes only need a point against France at the Luzhniki Stadium to join Didier Deschamps’ side in the round of 16.

After edging past Peru (1-0) and drawing with the Socceroos last time out, Denmark have four points from two games, meaning a draw would make them uncatchable in second place.

Allez Les Blues.

Scenario two – Australia qualify on goal difference

A Denmark defeat coupled with an Australia win would see the outcome decided on goal difference.

Providing Denmark lose, Australia would definitely quality if they beat Peru by two or more goals.

Similarly, if France beat Denmark by two goals or more and the Socceroos do the business in Sochi, van Marwijk’s side will progress.

Of course, if Australia don’t beat already-eliminated Peru they will be out, and all this will have been irrelevant.  

Still, we have to prepare you for these things.

Scenario three – Outcome decided on fair play, or even lots

What if the teams can't be separated on goal difference?

If the Danes lose by a single goal and the Socceroos win by the same margin, it would come down to goals scored, and then fair play.

Australia currently have the edge in the latter department, with three yellow cards compared to Denmark’s four.

Remarkably, if all those factors are tied, the result could be resolved by drawing lots.

What next?

If the Socceroos advance in second spot, the winner of Group D awaits...almost certainly Croatia and another blocbuster match aka 2006.