Argentina ready for grudge match
August 17th 2008 01:52
The Messiah - Messi was the key against the Netherlands
"Brazil should be worried"
The phrase comes from Sergio Batista, the coach of Argentina's Olympic football team. Batista analysed the 2-1 victory over the Netherlands and now focuses on the rival that awaits his side in the semi-finals of Beijing - their great nemesis Brazil.
"We respect them a lot, like they do to us." Batista said.
It is one match up that was anticipated by many no doubt. Argentina and Brazil will play each other in the semi-finals of the Olympic football tournament. The winner will go for gold, while the loser will have to conform with the fight for bronze and a backlash from supporters back home.
A classic South American duel awaits us in Beijing with all or nothing up for grabs for both teams. That is why Batista feels confident, without feeling cocky after his side's win over the Dutch.
"Firstly, we will watch the videos to see how Brazil play and then we will draw our conclusions. We respect them a lot and I believe they are worried about facing Argentina, even though we feel the same about Brazil."
On Tuesday a new chapter will be written between two of the world’s best football nations. The winner will play either Nigeria or Belgium for Olympic gold in Beijing.
For Batista, the recuperation is fundamental for Argentina's chances against Brazil.
"We both had gruelling quarter final matches that lasted 120 minutes. The team that recovers both mentally and physically will play in the final.
"We came to the Olympics with the objective of defending the gold medal and we hope that this will be achieved", Batista explained.
In respect to Argentina's 2-1 victory over Holland, Batista argued his side needs to improve significantly if it is to achieve a gold medal in Beijing.
"Thanks to luck, we received an important triumph, but we did create lots of opportunities in front of goal that we didn't convert.
"I still believe we were more superior than the Dutch. It was hard but I am happy with the current state of the team."
Batista should thank Argentine midfielder Lionel Messi for the piece of fortune his side received.
The Barcelona superstar scored the opening goal, and set up the winner for Di Maria with a clinical through ball that showcased why he has became 'La Seleccion's prophet of the 21st century.
Argentina's victory did come at a price.
Goalkeeper Oscar Ustari, who plays with Getafe in La Liga, suffered a hamstring injury. He will be replaced by Napoli no.1 Nicolás Navarro.
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