Argentine national football team coach Diego Maradona announced his final squad for the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa, starting in just a few weeks’ time. While most of the expected people are named in the squad, there was absolutely no doubt that there would be some surprises when Maradona is concerned. >
To begin with, here’s a look at the team:
Goalkeepers
Sergio Romero Mariano Andújar Diego Pozo
Defenders>
Nicolás Otamendi Gabriel Heinze Martín Demichelis Walter Samuel Ariel Garcé Nicolás Burdisso Clemente Rodríguez
Midfielders
Juan Sebastian Verón Javier Mascherano Jonás Gutiérrez Ángel Di María Maximiliano Rodríguez Javier Pastore Mario Bolatti
Forwards
Lionel Messi Gonzalo Higuaín Carlos Tévez Sergio Agüerio Diego Milito Martín Palermo
The only surprise inclusions in the squad remain the inclusions of the likes of Javier Pastore, who may have had a wonderful season but was still considered somewhat of an outsider for a regular team spot. >
Diego Milito was considered to be a rank outsider to make the team, not because of his performances but because of Maradona’s attitude towards the Inter Milan striker. Throughout the qualifying campaign, Milito was kept out of the team and his first major stint in the national team will begin with the World Cup.
Mario Bolatti also makes the team heading to South Africa, as does Jonas Gutierrez, who was playing in the English Championship with, & against, some sub-standard teams.
Argentina may have a strong frontline and a decent defense, but it is in the middle of the field where they will face a problem. With no Cambiasso to support Mascherano in the midfield, Maradona is like to look at Di Maria and Maxi Rodriguez to do the job. However, with just Veron looking likely to be the playmaker, one who’s clearly in the twilight of his career, Argentina may not have too many high hopes from Maradona’s magical men who may, again, fall well short of coveted title.
Will the little sorcerer be able to wield his magic like he did as a player? Come June 11th, all will be revealed.