Some Aussie fans might still be dancing on Michael Ballack's World Cup grave, but the Socceroos feel cheated they won't face the sidelined German star.

They have nothing but sympathy for the man they call the "heartbeat" of the German team, even though his absence improves Australia's chances immeasurably in their Group D opener in Durban next week.

"My heart genuinely goes out to him missing out through injury," said Socceroos defender Craig Moore.

"You want to see those players in the tournament.

"When you're on the world stage you want to play against the best, and Ballack is certainly one of the best.

"It's a major disappointment that he won't be there."

Moore's attitude, apart from being big-hearted and sportsmanlike, speaks volumes for the Socceroos' confidence levels.

They may or may not be beaten on the pitch, but they certainly aren't beaten between the ears.

Captain Lucas Neill is another who prides himself on being able to stand up against the cream of world football.

But he warns that Ballack's loss might not be the plus many fans think it is.

"Ballack was the heartbeat of the German team," said Neill.

"For many years he has been the number one profile player in Germany.

"Some see that as a positive for us.

"I personally think that whoever would have been in his shadow now gets the chance to come in and shine.

"That might be dangerous for us.

"In every position they've got one or two international top-of-their-game players."

Moore is on the same wavelength.

"Ballack has led his country extremely well, and he's a fantastic player," said Neill's central defensive partner.

"But Germany are certainly not a team built around one player.

"If you focus on one player, it's the others who can hurt you."

The Germans have deep resources when it comes to quality.

When Ballack comes out another top-drawer player jumps straight in.

But they will miss his experience and his aura as a natural leader.

Ballack, who ended up on crutches after an ankle-wrenching tackle in Chelsea's FA Cup final triumph last month, says Germany's first aim is to avoid catastrophe.

"You can lose against anybody in the group stages," he said.

"Australia, Serbia and Ghana are all athletic, robust teams."

Ballack said the German team was always under pressure to perform.

"It's awful for the team when they can only really enjoy the tournament from the semi-finals," he said.

"Anything else would mean failure.

"That does push you and motivate you, but it is a merciless game."

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