TWENTY FOUR
In Germany 2006 Argentina Combine to Score a Wonder Goal
Gelsenkirchen: 16th June 2006: 6-0
In Mexico 86 Diego Maradona destroyed single-handedly the world's best defences in Mexico to inspire his nation to a second triumph. Their four attempts since to win a third crown all ended in bitterness and despair. Italia 90: the issuing of two red cards in the final saw huge shame fall upon Argentina as Maradona's tears of defeat cut no ice with the Rome crowd who whistled in derision at the antics of his disgraced team.
USA 94: this time Maradona's drug ban saw Argentina swiftly lose heart and they crashed out to Romania in the second round. A sobbing Maradona watched from the stands claiming conspiracies. It appeared to be everybody's fault but his own. France 98: a last minute Bergkamp gem broke Argentine hearts as they again flattered to deceive. It goes on.
Japan/ Korea 2002: Arriving in the Far East as huge pre-tournament favourites Argentina are woefully humiliated in a first round knockout. By all teams England. Great players such as Veron and Crespo miserably fall short of much-hyped reputations. Once more they fail. All eyes then rested upon Germany 2006.
After an opening victory against Ivory Coast Jose Pekerman's side faced Serbia and Montenegro. Playing outstanding, possession football Argentina outclassed their opponents in the opening half hour. The ball was played and kept as if it belongs to these beguiling South Americans with the bedraggled Europeans chasing shadows. Unallowed to touch.
At their heart was Juan Riquelme, under-rated by many but an utterly electrifying play-maker of unerring vision and touch. Leading 1-0 when it could have been so many more a reborn Hernan Crespo's back-heel let in Esteban Cambiasso to unleash a magnificent shot ending a breathtaking sequence of 24 passes.
52,000 fans in Gelsenkirchen rose to salute arguably the finest goal in World Cup history. Better even than that of a certain number ten, twenty years earlier who took on and beat them all single-handedly. Surely this time round Argentina would fulfil their potential?
No.
John ludden:
Cfieldsoffire@aol.com
Published by johnludden.webs.com:
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