Australia manager Graham Arnold has admitted that facing Lionel Messi in the 2022 FIFA World Cup will be a moment to cherish ahead of the Socceroos' round of 16 clash against Argentina this weekend.
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The Socceroos advanced from Group D after picking up victories against Tunisia and Denmark following their defeat to France in their opening match of the tournament.
Australia boss Arnold, who called up South African-born midfielder Keanu Baccus to his 26-man squad, spoke ahead of Australia's last 16 encounter against Argentina, and specifically Messi.
"This is a dream come true, playing against Lionel Messi in a World Cup," he said, according to the Daily Mail.
"I don't think anyone expected us to even win a game and then to win two in one World Cup, it's amazing.
"You don't get these opportunities often in life.
"So, what are you going to do about it? Are you just going to let it ride or are you going to do something more and special?
"This is when you go home, you have got time to think about things and remember those things, but now, this is real. And let's give it our best shot."
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Messi and Argentina qualified for the round of 16 after a 2-0 victory over Poland on Wednesday night.
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