Two young Qantas Socceroos hopefuls made positive starts to the European season this weekend.
Former A-League player Robbie Kruse marked his Bundesliga debut in style by setting up a goal in Fortuna Dusseldorf's 2-0 opening day win at FC Augsburg.
The former Melbourne Victory and Brisbane Roar player played his part in ensuring his club enjoyed a successful return to the German top-flight following a 15-year absence.
Dani Schahin scored a double with Socceroo Kruse delivering the cross for his teammate's second goal from close range in the 79th minute.
Kruse, who struggled for a regular starting spot last season as his team earned promotion from the second division, made the run-on team on Saturday and was substituted in the 83rd minute.
It was tough day in the Barclays Premier League for Kruse's compatriots.
Mark Schwarzer's Fulham lost 3-2 at Manchester United while Brett Holman and Chris Herd's Aston Villa continued their poor start to the season with a 3-1 home loss to Everton.
In Italy, midfielder James Troisi has taken his first steps in Serie A, coming off the bench in Atalanta's 1-0 home loss to Lazio.
Troisi entered the match in the 67th minute in Bergamo with Hernanes' 17th minute goal proving the difference.
The 24-year-old Troisi, who has played eight times for the Socceroos, is on loan from Serie A champions Juventus following his off-season move from Turkey.
Atalanta finished 12th in the 2011-12 Serie A season and the South Australian will be banking on more game time to bolster his chances for more action in the national team.
Meanwhile, Eddy Bosnar rescued a point for Suwon Bluewings in a 1-1 draw with Seongnam in the K-League.
Bosnar, who is making a habit of scoring thunderous free-kicks, levelled for his side in the 52nd minute after Everton Santos' 37th-minute strike.