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Teddington - Australia coach Michael Cheika on Monday warned his players not to get dragged into rivalry with the All Blacks before their World Cup final.
READ: Boks need to change their game style
Cheika said the Wallabies will "lose impetus" in their preparations if they get diverted from the tough task ahead against the defending champions.
Australia and New Zealand will play each other in a World Cup final for the first time on Saturday. Australia beat Argentina in their semi-final on Sunday while New Zealand defeated South Africa one day earlier.
"I don't really know if rivalry will make much of a difference. It's nice for supporters," Cheika said.
"If we get caught up in it, we will lose impetus."
Cheika added: "If you're happy just to have made the final then it's not sufficient, it just gets you a pat on the back."
Cheika, who in just over a year in charge has revived the divided squad, said neither Australia nor New Zealand would be playing to lose.
"On Saturday there will be 46 pig-headed fellas out there trying to win," he added.
"Anyone that is involved in rugby hates losing and that feeling when you sit in the dressing room afterwards with your teammates," said the 48-year-old.
"You wouldn't be playing the game otherwise. I know that's the same for all footy players, soccer players, AFL players, you aren't going out there to lose. That is the joy of the game."
