FRANCE 98 – Argentina – G. Batistuta: “I'm not here to become the top scorer in the World Cup, but to play with my team”

Argentina – G. Batistuta: “I’m not here to become the top scorer in the World Cup, but to play with my team”

24.06.98 17h05 CET

Comments from l’Etrat, near SAINT-ETIENNE

Diego SIMEONE (8), captain

“We hope that SENSINI’s (6) injury isn’t too serious. We hope to be even better against CROATIA. We haven’t yet reached our peak. It’s an important match. We hope to be able to retrieve possession of the ball as often as possible and to play quickly. I was eight years old in 1978 and I can remember the four important goals scored to get through to the final. My father took me to the ground and then managed to steal a shirt. We were very young; it is a wonderful souvenir.”

Gabriel BATISTUTA (9)

“I’m not here to become the top scorer in the World Cup, but to play with my team. I think that ARGENTINA must attack, if we score so much the better but that’s not my main worry. I don’t consider the four goals I’ve scored since the beginning of the World Cup as revenge for being kept out of the squad for some time. I have great potential but we mustn’t forget that in 1994, ARGENTINA had also scored four goals and was knocked out half way through. I’ve no real preference as to our next opponent. We’re playing well at the moment. ITALY is one of the best teams in the World Cup; all their players are great players. A far as the 25000 dollar cheque is concerned, I think it will be given to a charitable child care association.”

Ariel ORTEGA (1)

“We had a very good game. I’m happy to have scored two goals and I hope to score some more. As for my future, it’s still uncertain at the moment.”

Juan VERON (11)

“Our way of playing will remain unchanged against CROATIA. Out victory over JAMAICA has reinforced that idea. We can adapt perfectly to Daniel PASSARELLA’s tactics. Moreover, we feel we have everything on hand.”