“Australia is not going too far this year,” said the Rio de Janeiro man who now lives in Orange and works as a chef at The Greenhouse.

Mr Cesar will be cheering on his beloved Brazil from his Orange lounge room this year – away from Brazil for the first time during a World Cup.

But while the Waratahs player doesn’t think much of Australia’s chances he was also doubtful about Brazil.

“I think Brazil is not strong enough to win this year,” he said.

Mr Cesar said Brazil should win its group stage but he didn’t believe it could match Germany, who he tipped to win the cup.

The 2018 tournament started on Friday in Russia.

Australia’s first game is at 8pm Saturday against France while Brazil plays Switzerland on Monday.