The Aussies have pulled off another remarkable win in an historic result against Denmark to officially qualify for the knockout round for the first time since 2006.

Australia defeated the Danes 1-0 on Thursday morning (AEDT) to secure a crucial three points, finishing on six overall in second place of Group D.

The Green and Gold were on the back foot for large portions of the contest but their defence stood strong and, only minutes after Tunisia scored against France, they found their breakthrough.

Socceroos winger Mathew Leckie stepped up on the hour mark, running through in a rapid counter-attack all the way to the box before expertly striking the ball into the bottom right corner.

Leckie’s goal proved to be essential as, without it, Australia would have finished level on points with Tunisia (who themselves recorded a shock 1-0 win over France) and been eliminated due to the Tunisians’ superior goal difference.

The veteran winger had nothing but joy for what is one of the defining moments in his career as well as his teammates.

“I’m just so proud. We’ve worked so hard. This is my third World Cup now and I’ve had my chances in previous World Cups to score, wasn’t meant to be,” Leckie said to media post-match.

“My first World Cup (goal) is probably one of the most important goals for me and for the team,” the winger said after becoming Australia’s ninth goal scorer at a World Cup.

Socceroos coach Graham Arnold was elated with the efforts of his players in what is the culmination of many years of hard work and dedication.

“These boys came in with a great mind set. We’ve been working on this for four years about the belief and the energy and the focus. You know, I can see in their eyes they were ready tonight,” Mr Arnold said to media post-match.

Arnold was adamant that they regroup quickly to get ready for their next match which was confirmed a few hours later to be against South American giants Argentina.

“As I said to the boys, that’s why we won after a great win against Tunisia. No celebrations, no emotion. Sleep. No social media,” Arnold said.

The Australians have to get ready for a quick turnover as they play the reigning Copa America champions in three days, led by football icon Lionel Messi, with the Argentines beating Poland 2-0 this morning to top their group.

Group D Standings

1-France: 6

2-Australia: 6

3-Tunisia: 4

4-Denmark: 1