Real Madrid midfielder Angel Di Maria says Argentina are right to be among the favourites to lift the World Cup.
Di Maria has spoken with AS ahead of the start of the tournament, with the discussion centring around Argentina’s chances of lifting the trophy in Brazil.
The Madrid man also spoke highly of Lionel Messi, who will captain La Albiceleste during the competition.
“Being in the national team makes me very happy,” Di Maria said.
“It’s true that we all played together many years ago and maybe that makes me feel comfortable in the team.
“The road in the play-offs was long at times and especially against Colombia, when we struggled, and then found our way and realised we could go through.
“But we won’t settle for that. We are very excited about the start of the World Cup and we believe in ourselves as a team, because that’s what we are: A team.”
Argentina have been ranked among the favourites for victory and while Di Maria warned against assuming anything was guaranteed, he acknowledged the team’s status among the favourites was realistic.
“We all have the dream [of winning the World Cup]. The dream is for our people,” he said.
“But we must be calm. There are seven games and it’s difficult, where you give everything and sometimes need luck.
“For our part, we’ll try to do our best, to give everything on the pitch and reach the final to become champions.
“Argentina, with its name and history, is always among the favourites. Of course, so are Germany, Spain and Brazil.
“We have a good team to fight and to dream about doing things the best way, with our effort, commitment and work. We will give everything.
“Now we have our minds set on Bosnia. The tournament must be taken game to game, without giving away anything but taking in every detail.”
