Australia's narrow wins over New Zealand and Fiji have attracted criticism, but Samoa prop Francis Molo expects a formidable opponent in Sunday's semi-final.
"We're expecting a lot from the Australians. They'd be be pretty fired up by a lot of criticism," Molo said.
"Yeah, definitely, Australia's a quality, quality side from the one to 19. You couldn't expect anything less from them."
The Kangaroos, three-time defending champions, face Samoa at Allianz Stadium, with the Samoans seeking a place in the final four years after losing the 2022 decider 30-10.
Captain Junior Paulo said that defeat still hurts, though he stopped short of calling revenge the team's main motivation.
"Look, to lose a grand final like that, I'd be lying if I said it wasn't burning," Paulo said.
He noted only a few players from that squad remain and said the 2026 side wanted to focus on its own opportunity.
Paulo described the semi-final as a chance to make history for Samoa, and potentially deliver one of the tournament's biggest upsets.
The team heads into the match after a 20-18 loss to Tonga on Sunday, a result Paulo said had taken an emotional toll.
After a few days in Coogee to reset, Molo said Samoa had gained confidence from the close defeat.
"the best is yet to come. We're still building combinations that we're working on and I don't think we've hit the straps just yet."