Brazil – C. Taffarel: “This final will be a beautiful and joyous affair”

Statements from OZOIR-LA-FERRIERE (north east of PARIS).

Roberto Carlos (6):

“The most important thing for me is to remember that we are playing for 180 million other Brazilians. Everyone was expecting this BRAZIL-FRANCE final. Their cultures being what they are, these two teams will bring us a beautiful game for the final on Sunday. We are very close to attaining our goal, and it is within our grasp to bring back our fifth title. I play with KAREMBEU (19) at Real Madrid, as a player he is exceptionally strong physically, and off the field he is a very pleasant person to know. If BRAZIL are really favourites, which I don’t think is true as FRANCE are playing in front of a home crowd, then we will have to prove this on the pitch, even if the coaches say what they like (Aimé JACQUET said that BRAZIL are favourites).”

DENILSON (19):

“We hope that the match will be decided within normal time. Extra time plays on the nerves, even if we are psychologically strong team. We will have to play this final as only we know how: without haste, playing seriously and with concentration, and at the same time not forgetting to produce a beautiful game. It’s not every day that you get to play a World Cup final. As usual, I think that ZAGALLO will bring me on in the second half, to take advantage of the fact that the opposition will be getting tired. Favourites? FRANCE, of course! As four times world champions all the weight of responsibility falls on our shoulders. To end with, I’d like to send a message to all our supporters: believe in us, and we will bring back a fifth World Cup.”

LEONARDO (8):

“Even if Aimé JACQUET has often changed his starting line-up, he has won all his matches until now. To play a World Cup final is a special event. In my opinion there are no favourites when you consider the standards of the two teams competing. In my opinion FRANCE is at its best right now. Playing in front of their own public they have an obligation to play well. I do admit that they have tried a number of attacking options without success, but they remain a very hard team to beat.”

CESAR SAMPAIO (5):

“This final is the fruit of some very hard labour. I have known much hardship in my life, and today on the eve of the match, I feel that my efforts have been paid back. Our match against the NETHERLANDS (1-1, 4-2 on penalties) was very tough, but I expect even more from the French, who are playing in front of their public and will want to impose themselves on the match at any cost. To dominate FRANCE and the 80 000 supporters who will be behind them, we will certainly have to see a great BRAZIL performance.”

TAFFAREL (1):

“This match will establish both teams. This final will be a beautiful and joyous affair. We realise that the French midfield works well together and is quick on its feet. What’s more, I believe it will be the key to stopping us. The French will have a sword of Damocles over their heads since they will be playing on their own turf. I’m sure BRAZIL will be able to make the most of this pressure. This match will throw head to head the best defence and the best attack in the World Cup. We must put away our chances. We’re fully prepared for anything, we’re very focused. With God on our side, we’ll win “a penta” (the fifth championship) as much for the Brazilian people as for ourselves.”