Argentina beat Nigeria 2-1 in their final Group D match to scrape into the knockout stage, where they will face Group C winners France in Kazan on Saturday.

"I am happy that we have qualified for the knockout stage, it wasn't easy... As for the match with France, it's obvious that we are not the favorites, they have an advantage in teamwork, and our team is just forming. But it is France who should worry, because they are the favorites," Crespo told journalists.

The 42-year-old, who played at three FIFA World Cups for Argentina, added that not only Argentina captain Lionel Messi but the entire team felt pressure ahead of the game.

"At the end of the game [with Nigeria], the boys were crying with joy because of the pressure that they had faced, and I hope that now, having advanced to the knockout stage, it will be easier for them mentally and nothing will interfere with their play," Crespo said.