Australia midfielder Brett Holman insists the absence of Michael Ballack from the World Cup does not take Germany's favouritism away.

The AZ Alkmaar man believes that the Germans have the right to be classed as one of the more favoured teams to take out the tournament, which kicks off tonight in South Africa, despite the fact that their inspirational skipper will not be with them.

But Holman was not backing down from the challenge and was confident he and his Socceroos teammate could cause a bit of ado when they take on Die Mannschaft in Durban on Sunday (Monday morning AEST).

"If you're realistic and reasonable then you have to look at Germany as one of the favourites for the World Cup even without Ballack," Holman said.

"They've probably got enough good players to put out two sides at a World Cup.

"But we've got fantastic quality and the one thing the Australian team's got going for it is everyone believes in each other and believes in themselves.

"Especially when you're a close team and the atmosphere's fantastic, you can do great things."