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A FROG puckering up to a princess and getting an air kiss. A size six glass slipper when the Australians take a size seven. It was agonisingly close but there would be no fairytale for these Socceroos.
Yet despite the worst Australian start since Shane Kelly's foot came out of the pedal at the Atlanta Olympics, a 3-1 defeat by Chile was not the grim reality this recently assembled team of veterans, decent journeymen and untested youngsters was supposed to face.
Instead their performance was brave, almost epic. A triumph of spirit and will, but, despite some incredible efforts and heartbreaking near-misses, no triumph at all.
After 13 minutes the Socceroos had conceded two goals and it appeared the most pessimistic forecasts would be proven. As Chile attacked, Australia skated on ball bearings.
In those moments you could not help fear for Ange Postecoglou's outfit. Both because of the brilliant and suddenly emboldened opposition they faced and the hostile environment in which they were being asked to perform.
Socceroos champion Tim Cahill celebrates his goal against Chile, having now scored in three World Cups. Picture: George Salpigtidis Source: News Corp Australia
An hour before the game it was apparent the Australians didn't just face the Chilean team, they confronted Chile itself. Australia's band of travelling fans was vastly outnumbered by the red-shirted Chileans who made a deafening noise when their heroes walked on to the pitch. And this was just for the warm-up.
Then the Australians lined up on the pitch and endured an incredibly passionate, even spine-tingling rendition of the Chilean national anthem roared by chest-thumping fans, while getting a close look at their potential tormentors.
Alexis Sanchez plays for Barcelona and Arturo Vidal plays for Juventus. Ivan Franjic plays for Brisbane Roar and Matthew Spiranovic plays for Western Sydney Wanderers.
This time, it seemed, reputations would count for everything. When Sanchez and Vidal kicked off, Vidal crossed himself before darting after the ball. Thirteen excruciating minutes later on Friday the 13th (Brazil time), it seemed Australia didn't have a prayer.
Perhaps Australian goalkeeper Mathew Ryan could have plucked the ball from Charles Aranguiz's feet. Perhaps Mile — "Call me Mike'' — Jedinak could have won the ball in the air. Certainly Sanchez should have been marked. But his goal was sharp, and ignited both Chile's fans and Australia self-doubts.
Alexis Sanchez of Chile scores the opening goal against the Socceroos. Picture: George Salpigtidis Source: News Corp Australia
Yes, the defenders should have been in the same post-code as Jorge Valdivia when he caressed the ball over Ryan's head for the second.
Australia's defensive weakness was exposed, which no doubt brought knowing nods from some who will reflexively bemoan the absence of some of "golden era'' stars.
Chile once celebrated the rescue of miners trapped underground for 69 days. The Socceroos seemed to be in an even deeper hole.
Which of course meant Tim Cahill scored a goal with his head. The man's skull should one day be on display in the National Museum beside Phar Lap's heart.
It was a goal that changed the momentum of the game. It might be one that changes the momentum in Aussie football.
Bravery, of course, will be no consolation. So despite a noble effort it now seems certain this will be the World Cup Australia had to have. The one where the wheel is turned and the ship slowly changes course.
The Socceroos defence stands distraught after conceding Chile's first goal. Source: Getty Images
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