Jakarta, Nov 27: Argentina and Germany the two superhouses will battle it out on Tuesday for a place in the showpiece final of the FIFA U17 World Cup 2023 – and the chance to claim that elusive title.
Argentina will go into the game fresh from a stunning 3-0 last-eight victory over fierce rivals Brazil and coach Diego Placente insists there is no question of his team losing focus after that famous victory.
“We don’t want to relax now,” he said. “We know what it took to get here with the win against Brazil. It was a revenge match for us (after Brazil beat them in the South American U-17 Championship). We have worked a lot with the boys since then and have improved. We know we can make history. We are hungry.”
Germany’s quarter-final win over Spain may not have been as emphatic as La Albiceleste’s derby demolition job, but was just as impressive in its own right. Christian Wuck’s side soaked up pressure against their technically elite opponents – defending with authority and working relentlessly off the ball – before star attacker Paris Brunner struck the decisive blow from the penalty spot midway through the second half.
When asked about his team’s tactical approach ahead of the semi-final, Wuck said: “We know what the strengths of Argentina are, but we also know what our own strengths are. I’m sure both teams will bring something special to the field.” (IANS)
