World Cup 2022: Messi Warns Argentina Teammates About Round of 16 Clash Against Australia

• Lionel Messi has told his Argentina teammates to be wary of an inspired Australia side
• La Albiceleste sealed their place in the last 16 thanks to a comfortable win over Poland
• Messi noted the threat any team can pose, particularly after the Saudi Arabia humbling

Argentina captain Lionel Messi has warned his teammates about the threat of Australia in their last 16 showdown on Saturday, December 3.

La Albiceleste bounced back from a dreadful start to the 2022 World Cup, which started with a historic defeat to Saudi Arabia, to win their next two games against Mexico and Poland.

They finished top of Group C, setting up a last-16 meeting with Australia, who stunned dark horses Denmark with a 1-0 win. Argentina last reached the quarters in 2014, a tournament in which they went all the way to the final.

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Meanwhile, the Socceroos have progressed from the group stage for the first time since 2006 and will be faced with an uphill battle against the South Americans.

Still, the 2022 edition has shown that smaller teams can topple top teams, according to the Guardian.

Messi warns Argentina

After the game, Messi stressed that his nation must adequately prepare for every game, as Saudi Arabia's game showed, according to the Mirror.

"We have to prepare [for] the game as always. We know it will be a very tough game as well. This World Cup - it's very even - we can't trust ourselves because we experienced it first-hand. Now, we have to rest."

The 35-year-old is looking to cement his name as arguably the greatest footballer of all time, by winning the World Cup. His country last won the tournament in 1978 and 1986.

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Fans and pundits have declared that should Messi win the tournament, it will undoubtedly make him the best footballer ever.

Despite suffering a 4-1 defeat to France, Australia showed the strength of character to beat Tunisia and Denmark to finish behind the defending champions.

Graham Arnold's side will definitely borrow a page from Saudi Arabia's book on how to beat Argentina. Therefore, Lionel Scaloni's side should be prepared for a tough test.

Messi ignores Lewandowski

Sports Brief earlier reported on Messi snubbing Robert Lewandowski during a cagey affair between the two countries.

The two were involved in a minor incident during the Group C decider between Argentina and Poland on November 30.

Cameras picked up Messi ignoring Lewandowski's hand, after the Polish captain sought to apologise after fouling the seven-time Ballon d'Or winner.