FRANCE 98 – Saudi Arabia-Denmark – M. Laudrup: “We would have wanted to score more goals”

Saudi Arabia-Denmark – M. Laudrup: “We would have wanted to score more goals”

12.06.98 21h47 CET

Michael LAUDRUP, captain (10) :

“We’ve begun our World Cup very well with this match against SAUDI ARABIA. We absolutely had to win, and we did. The only negative aspect of the game was that we converted so few of chances we had. We would have wanted to score more goals. In the end we only managed to put one in the back of their net. I think we can play a part in this World Cup, even if BRAZIL are much the best side in the tournament. Behind them we’ve got serious competition, what with SPAIN, ITALY and the rest”.

Per FRANDSEN (8):

“It was very important to win this match. Our supporters were completely brilliant, we really felt like we were playing at home. I don’t know if we deserved our win, but that’s football: we needed the three points and we got them. With the score at 1-0, the Saudis still had everything to play for. We showed signs of fatigue in the last fifteen minutes. With five minutes to go, it was very tough for us. First place is still our aim but if we come second, so what, we’d still be through to the second round, and that’s what really matters”.

Ebbe SAND (19):

“The best team won. But we didn’t play the blinder we had hoped for. One goal was enough but we could have scored three or four. It was only the first match. With a few changes we’ll be in top form for our next matches. The Saudis played a good tactical game especially since their coach PARREIRA is capable of breaking down opponents’ play. They can beat any team. As for us, we will probably be under more pressure in our next games. FRANCE are still favourites in this group but I think we will probably get second place”.

Allan NIELSEN (7):

“We couldn’t have hoped for a better start. The team is much more optimistic now. We have the confidence to continue our World Cup challenge. We played well but after the goal we hung back too much. There was a risk that the Saudis would equalise. For our next match against SOUTH AFRICA, our aim is to win again. And if we beat FRANCE it would be fantastic. For the time being we will have a good evening, we are going to celebrate”.