Tuesday, February 24, 2009

Argentina coach Diego Maradona not concerned over high altitude


Buenos Aires (Xinhua): Argentina coach Diego Maradona said his team would be daunted by the high altitude when they face Bolivia at 3,600 meters above sea level in their World Cup qualifier in April.

"We're working on the altitude matter," said Maradona during a news conference on Monday in Buenos Aires.

"You have to face up to the altitude and not be afraid of it. If you fear it, then the doubts start."

Argentina host Venezuela in a World Cup qualifier on March 28, Maradona's first competitive match in charge, and visit Bolivia four days later.

Argentina have played and won two friendlies, away to Scotland and France, since Maradona's appointment in October.

"The base of the team will be the one we have been using so far," said Maradona, who has left midfielder Esteban Cambiasso out of his team and been denied playmaker Juan Roman Riquelme because of club commitments.

"I'm proud of the players who have understood the message that the Argentina shirt comes above everything else."

No comments: