Atletico Madrid Coach Diego Simeone has predicted Argentina will win the World Cup final against Germany, but only on penalties.
AS reports Cholo as recalling that he predicted a shootout win in the semi-final against the Netherlands, and he sees the finalists as so evenly matched that they won’t be separated any other way.
“Argentina will win the World Cup against Germany, but they will do so with excitement and penalties, as I predicted against the Netherlands,” he told Ole.
“I talked with friends before the game against the Netherlands and I told them I was convinced Argentina would win on penalties. They said I was crazy.
“The final is 50-50. Germany are a solid and organised team, but you can take advantage of their high defensive line with speed and [Lionel] Messi and [Gonzalo] Higuain are going to be crucial on the break.
“It’s going to be difficult but from a supporter’s perspective, I have no doubt Argentina will win on penalties.”
Simeone also praised the performances of Javier Mascherano, who he feels has taken a leader’s role within the Argentina side.
“He may not be the captain but leaders don’t need an armband to mark them out,” Simeone continued.
“Mascherano has demonstrated leadership everywhere, human strength and the kind of player he is.”
And when asked to wade in on the debate over who is greater, Messi and Diego Maradona, Simeone took the diplomatic route.
“You can’t compare anyone with Diego,” he said.
“It’s not fair to compare players from different eras. There’s Pele, Maradona and Alfredo Di Stefano. You might like one or the other but it’s a personal choice.”
