Trying to achieve what would be a first World Cup qualification since 1974 and just a second overall, Australia's pursuit of a place at the 1994 tournament in the United States would end in play-off disappointment - just as was the case with so many other campaigns both before and since.

With Paul Wade captaining the team, Tony Vidmar leading the defense, and Damian Mori, John Kosmina, and Graham Arnold proving one of the most potent goal-scoring trios in Australia's modern history; winning the Oceania qualifying group proved a formality.

Canada were the first play-off opponent and provided a surprisingly formidable obstacle with the Socceroos needing penalty kicks to advance. Now Argentina stood in their path to the Finals, and, despite strong Australian performances home and away, the South Americans narrowly won 2-1 on aggregate as expected.