Australia might have a tough group, but let’s take a minute to see how the other AFC qualifiers fared.

First up, Japan. Ranked 3rd in the world and a seeded team, the current World and Asian Champions Japan look like they could cruise through the group stages in Group C. Their opposition on paper don’t look threatening for the disciplined Nadeshiko.

Of all the AFC qualifiers (excluding Australia), reigning titleholders Japan are the biggest strength from the AFC and their biggest test in the group matches will be against 18th ranked World Cup deubtantes Switzerland but otherwise they should be untroubled by South Americans Ecuador, who were the final qualifiers, and Cameroon (also making their debuts), ranked 49th and 51st respectively.

Korea Republic are ranked 17th in the world and find themselves in interesting Group E with Brazil as the seeded team (ranked 6th) and along with World Cup first timers Spain, ranked 16th, and Costa Rica, ranked 40th.

This will be a particularly tough group for Korea Republic, with their biggest test likely to be against the unpredictable but supremely talented Brazilians led by 5 time FIFA World Player of the Year, Marta. Closely ranked behind Spain, the technical and quick Korea Republic are a good chance to make it past the group stages.

Next up China, who recently dropped one position in the rankings to 14th. China are back at the World Cup after missing out on the 2011 edition for the first time. They will have to play well as their group consists of hosts Canada (ranked 8th), improving New Zealand, ranked 19th and late qualifiers The Netherlands, ranked 15th.

Based on rankings alone, this is the tightest group in the competition. The 2014 Asian Cup bronze medallists China have a favourable chance of making it past the group stages but it won’t be easy. Their biggest test is likely to be against Canada but both The Netherlands and New Zealand will present as tough opponents as well.

Finally, AFC debutante Thailand will be looking to make an impact in their first ever World Cup. Ranked 30th in the world, Thailand’s opponents include powerhouse Germany (2nd), Côte d'Ivoire (64th) and former winners Norway (9th).

Thailand will have a couple of incredibly tough matches coming up against Germany and Norway and it’s unlikely they will make it past the group stage.