Brazil coach Carlos Alberto Parreira was impressed by Australia's late revival in their 3-1 win over Japan, but says he was not surprised.

Three goals in the final six minutes earned the Socceroos their first-ever World Cup finals triumph and left Parreira with plenty to ponder.

He said: "The team that wins the opening game always takes a big step towards securing qualification from the group.

"I'm not going to say their result was a big surprise, as Australia eliminated Uruguay.

"I know the Australian team. They have players playing with success in Europe and are a very strong team. Technically they have a number of very interesting players.

"What was really surprising was the way it happened, with Japan ahead until the final few minutes of the second half - and we hoped the most they'd get out of it would be a draw.

"That the Australians should have run out 3-1 winners is stupendous."