Brazil's World Cup exit a warning before Egypt clash, says Scaloni

Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni believes Brazil's surprise World Cup exit should serve as a warning against underestimating any opponent as the defending champions prepare to face Egypt in the Round of 16.

Speaking at his pre-match press conference yesterday (6 July), Scaloni said Brazil's defeat to Norway illustrated how quickly matches can turn when chances are missed.

"I watched most of the Brazil match. Norway are a very good team. When it was still 0-0, if Endrick had converted that chance, we'd probably be discussing a different outcome today," Scaloni said, according to AFP.

"Brazil came up against a strong opponent, and that's the reality. We know we're about to face another difficult team, so we have to stay focused."

Scaloni also praised Egypt, describing them as a disciplined and well-organised team capable of troubling any opponent.

"They have a clear identity. They defend very well and make matches difficult for their rivals. We expect them to approach our game in the same way," he said.

"They're a very competitive team, and Mohamed Salah is a top-class player. Facing him is always exciting, and Egypt deserve to have reached this stage."

The Argentina coach refused to reveal his starting XI, saying he had not yet informed his players of his decision.

"I've already made my decision, but I haven't told the players yet, so I'm certainly not going to announce it here," he said.

"I've been told that many of you in the media have already guessed the lineup, and you're not far off."

Scaloni also dismissed concerns over Lionel Messi's fitness after the captain played the full 120 minutes in Argentina's extra-time victory over Cape Verde three days earlier.

"Messi is doing perfectly well. Even after playing 120 minutes at the age of 39, he never complained about feeling tired," Scaloni said.