Goa, July 11 -- Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni has strongly rejected allegations that FIFA is favouring the defending champions, insisting that criticism surrounding the team is nothing new and has only strengthened his players ahead of their FIFA World Cup quarter-final against Switzerland.

Speaking to reporters before Saturday's clash, Scaloni said accusations of Argentina receiving preferential treatment have followed the national team for decades.

"It's been a long time since 1986, and people were saying the same thing back then," Scaloni said. "Argentina has always been a team that generates debate. There are always people who don't want us to win, and perhaps there are even more now because we are the defending champions."

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