Australia defender Lucas Neill says the Socceroos will not be overawed when they take on Italy in a World Cup second round clash in Kaiserslautern on Monday.

Guus Hiddink's side qualified out of Group F along with five-time champions Brazil and Neill thinks his side have no reason to fear Italy or anyone else.

He said: "We will respect Italy, we won't fear them, and I'm sure they'll do the same because they'll have to respect us.

"This is the World Cup and anything's possible so we'll be going out there with no fear.

"Italy have won three World Cups and starred in many tournaments and their reputations are massive, so it's a real David and Goliath situation.

"They're a ruthless team. They're used to going out, getting a goal and protecting it, but I can't see it being a 1-0 against Australia. It's going to be a fantastic game.

"We've taken on the biggest team and given them a good run for their money and made people look at us.

"I don't consider Italy a lesser team than Brazil, but why should we fear them? We've got as many strengths as they do now."