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Argentina - Team Profile
25/05/2006
With an attacking quartet of Riquelme, Messi, Crespo and Pablo Aimar or Carlos Tevez Argentina could be one of the most exciing teams to watch at this season's Fifa World Cup. Winners in 1978 and again in 1986 Argentina look set to shake off the omnipresent shadow of legend Maradona and reclaim their place in the world elite.
Their squad this year is a mixture of regularly playing South American-based players and top quality Champion League experienced footballers. Coached by the thrice successful World Youth Cup coach José Pekerman it is only injury worries which may stop Argentina progressing all the way in this tournament.
Manchester United's Gabriel Heinze has been injured for most of the season but is reported to be progressing every day and his presence will add strength and pace to Argentina's back line. Roberto Ayala is another important defender set to return from injury and his experience will be vital to the their chances. Gabriel Milito is another vital member of the defensive squad along with Walter Samuel and Nicolas Burdisso (both Inter Milan)
Juan Román Riquelme of Villareal has the chance to become the star of this tournament. Calm and assured on the ball he pulls the strings in the heart of the midfield with inch-perfect passes and intelligent dribbling. Esteban Cambiasso, famous for his comb over hairstyle, generally plays alongside Riquelme - although they were in opposition in the quarter-finals of the 2006 Champions League when Inter played Villareal - is the team's lungs. Pablo Aimar looks set to play an important role sharing duties possibly with Chelsea transfer target Carlos Tevez. Tevez, subject of a huge transfer to Brazil, is considered one of the most promising players in the world.
Up front the inconsistent but deadly Chelsea striker Herno Crespo looks a certain starter with the 'New Maradona' Lionel Messi. Messi has been an important member of Barcelona's La Liga triumph and could be one of the surprise stars of this year's tournament.
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