FRANCE 98 – USA – Alexi Lalas: “I feel as strong as an ox”

David REGIS (6) :

“Ever since the start of the World Cup, we’ve been nothing but spectators… we can’t wait to get going. Against the Germans, we will not concentrate on defending, but instead base our game on technique and moves: no strong attacks with them, they are too strong for that. Even though I have changed my nationality last year, my view of France has not changed. I am still a big fan of “les Bleus”. They impressed me in their last game against SOUTH AFRICA (Group C)… Luckily we’re not in their group.” 

Brian Mc BRIDE (20)  :

“We really studied the Germans’ game… it’s both technically sound and offence- oriented . Against GERMANY, defence should be an important part of our game strategy… we’ll have to fight the Germans’ aggressive style with pure technique.”

Alexi LALAS (22) :

“We will respect the Germans, but not fear them. Personally, I am in shape: I feel as strong as an ox. The team is ready and I think that anything could happen. None of us have come here with the underlying motive of being recruited by a European club. We are here for the sport, not the business.”  

Steve SAMPSON :

“One of our goals in the three first round matches will be to show that the team has made progress since the last World Cup. Against GERMANY, we expect a lot of pressure, which we’ll try to use against them. The first twenty minutes will be determinant and if someone offered me a draw I would accept right away. According to the statistics, we know that the Germans start off their World Cups slowly. This is an opportunity for us to have a good match and gain the public’s respect.”

Cobi JONES (13) :

” The UNITED STATES team is stronger this year than 4 years ago: more complete, stronger and with more experience. The atmosphere is good and there are no stars in the group. The whole team is the star. Everyone wants this World Cup to be a success

Marcelo BALBOA (17) :

” Two favourites stand out in our qualifying group, GERMANY and YUGOSLAVIA. We’re not quite up to their level, but we’re going to try everything to get through the first round, playing as well as we can and enjoying it as much as possible. “