Havana (US): Argentine star Lionel Messi was respectful of Venezuela, ahead of their quarter-final clash in the Copa America Centernario on Sunday.
<img title="Lionel Messi" src="http://images.mid-day.com/images/2016/jun/17Lionel-Messi-1.jpg" alt="Lionel Messi" /> Lionel Messi
Messi said: "Venezuela is a complicated rival. They got here because they deserve to be here. Venezuela comes from a very complicated group and almost finished top." The victory against Bolivia allowed Argentina to finish as leader of Group D with 10 goals in favour and one against. They will face Venezuela, but Messi prefers to be cautious. &nbsp;"We have to prepare the game as we always do, to try to keep the same level because we are going to face a tough rival," Messi added. Meanwhile, Argentina coach Gerardo Martino said facing Venezuela in the quarter-finals marks "the beginning of a decisive stage" of the regional tournament. "Venezuela played a great match (against Mexico). They have lots of strengths and great players. A decisive stage will begin, where teams are forced to win if they want to stay alive. We hope to be at the right level," Martino said.

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Argentine star Lionel Messi was respectful of Venezuela, ahead of their quarter-final clash in the Copa America Centernario on Sunday

Copa America 2016: Can't take 'complicated' Venezuela lightly, says Messi

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Copa America 2016: Can't take 'complicated' Venezuela lightly, says Messi

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