After Australia's victory over Fiji, Roosters coach Trent Robinson called for the Kangaroos to improve their physical performance.
"Australia got outmuscled by Fiji and they did by New Zealand last week," Robinson said on Seven commentary.
He questioned whether Australia could win the forward battle and create a platform for its halves, saying the team needed to muscle up.
New Zealand had gained more ground through the middle in the opening match, but individual Australian tries secured a win in one of the World Cup's best games.
Tino Fa'asuamaleaui says Australia is undefeated and still improving ahead of facing the Kiwis again.
He said the team had reviewed its opening win and knew it needed to improve collectively.
"I think we've been working since then, and we gotta go to another level," Fa'asuamaleaui said.
He said he respected New Zealand but rejected suggestions the Kiwis had won the forward contest: "at the end of the day, we won the game."