'We could have faced Brazil's fate': Scaloni warns before Egypt clash

Argentina's World Cup campaign has been flawless so far. The Albiceleste have won all four matches from the group stage to the last-32, securing a place in the last-16. Yet coach Lionel Scaloni is not letting the winning streak lull him into complacency. The unexpected elimination of arch-rivals Brazil has served as a reminder that the tag of defending champions or favourites offers no guarantee on the pitch.

Speaking at a press conference ahead of the last-16 clash against Egypt, Scaloni himself brought up Brazil's exit. He sees the Selecao's 2-1 defeat to Norway as an example of the cruel reality of the World Cup.

Due to training commitments, Scaloni did not watch the match in full. But from what he saw, he got a clear message. "I watched the Brazil match in bits and pieces because of training. It highlights the harsh reality of the tournament. Norway are a very good team. If Endrick had scored that goal (at the end), we would be talking about something completely different today."

Scaloni also warned that such a fate could befall anyone. "They (Brazil) are out of the World Cup. Just as it could have happened to us against Cape Verde, or to anyone else in this tournament."

The Argentina coach referred to the tough match against Cape Verde, where his team was on the brink at one point. Reminding that it was the fighting spirit that saved them, he said, "If the team had not shown that resilience and fighting mentality against Cape Verde, we would have been out too. When you don't play well and lack that mentality, you are eliminated."

Scaloni also noted how big teams have been struggling in this World Cup. "This World Cup has been difficult for everyone. There is no single team dominating. Look at the other day: strong France had to fight against Paraguay, Spain fought against Portugal. No team is maintaining their previous level because the opponents are also playing well."

Argentina will face African powerhouse Egypt on Tuesday in the battle for a quarter-final spot. Not wanting to be the victim of an upset like Brazil, the Albiceleste are extra cautious against Mohamed Salah and his side. "We are on high alert. Egypt are a very tough opponent with high-quality players. Salah is a great player, and it will be a pleasure to face him. But we always remain cautious as a team," Scaloni said.