Tim Cahill's message to the Socceroos is a straightforward one ahead of their pressure-filled fortnight.

"Embrace the challenge, and don't let pressure ruin the enjoyment of three of the biggest matches of your career."

Cahill admits his readiness for the Socceroos' World Cup qualifiers comes from entering Tuesday night's clash with Japan relaxed and in peak fitness after a solid run of games and goals for American club side New York Red Bulls.

Now one of the Socceroos' elder statesmen as well as their brightest star, the 33-year-old says he has been doing his best to keep his younger team-mates from letting the occasion overawe them.

"It's a challenge, but it's also an exciting one - the prospect of having it all in our own hands," Cahill said.

"If you're not up for it, you shouldn't be here. My main objective is to make sure everyone understands that this is a real special time ... it's about enjoying it, embracing it.

"You can put a lot of pressure on yourself, but it's football. It's what we love to do. It's making sure we enjoy training, enjoy the environment we're in and not focus on any negatives."

Cahill has so often been the Socceroos' wrecking ball against Japan in a rivalry stretching back to the unforgettable 2006 World Cup finals match in which he scored twice off the bench to give Australia victory.

The aerial strength which belies his height has tormented the Japanese in the past.

Expect it to be unleashed again, with coach Holger Osieck certain to play him in tandem with giant striker Josh Kennedy at some stage on Tuesday night in Saitama.

Group leaders Japan just need a point from their remaining two matches to claim automatic qualification, and a draw with Australia would be enough.

The Socceroos need more, currently sitting third.

With only the top two qualifying automatically, they face further Asian and South American play-offs to make Brazil 2014 if they can not improve their Group B standing.

Cahill admits much rests on the shoulders of those like him who have been there before - and he is up for the challenge of the Japan match and home qualifiers against Jordan and Iraq.

"We always knew it was going to be difficult (to qualify for the World Cup). We're third, and we're going to have to change it," he said.

"It's in our hands, and I'm all about making that happen."

"It's another big game, but we've played a lot of big games as a nation.

"There's a lot at stake, and people will be looking for me and a lot of the big players in the team to produce. It is what it is. I'll just play with a smile on my face and enjoy it."

After several days of testing training sessions, Osieck gave his charges Saturday afternoon off following morning pool, gym and video sessions.

AAP