Pichot has plenty of respect for the Australians

The Pumas face the reigning world champions and hosts in front of 80,000 people in Sydney on Friday.

It is a daunting task for the South Americans, despite their impressive form over the past 12 months.

"I think it's going to be a very difficult game for us," Argentine captain Pichot told the BBC.

"Australia has a very, very good team and to crack them is going to be very tough but we want to give it our best shot.

"We're very positive about the game and will try to do our best but they are one of the best teams in the world."

Australia were the world champions last time and they're always good Pumas captain Agustin Pichot

Despite their status as reigning world champions the Australians have been well below their best over the past couple of years.

They have been well beaten at home by England and New Zealand this year but Pichot refuses to write the Wallabies off.

Pichot on the defensive

"Of course England and New Zealand are on the top level as well and this World Cup will show us who is the best," said the scrum-half, who now plays for Stade de France in Paris.

"But Australia were the world champions last time and they're always good."

His words were echoed by half-back partner Contepomi.

Big stage

"We have to really concentrate and we have to really focus on the 80 minutes because Australia can suddenly score some tries in just a couple of minutes," said the Leinster fly-half.

"We will have to be really, really good on defence - they've got some very good individuals.

"Hopefully we can stop them and then try to put some pressure on them and try to make our gameplan work.