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Netherlands 0-0 Argentina AET (Pens 2-4 ): Romero the hero as South Americans go through
Argentina reached the World Cup final as they beat Netherlands in a penalty shootout on Wednesday.
Having introduced goalkeeper Tim Krul off the bench to replace number one Jasper Cillessen in the quarter-final shoot-out win over Costa Rica, Louis van Gaal had no such options this time around as Wednesday's semi-final finished 0-0 after extra time.The Dutch had used all three substitutes by that point, leaving Cillessen to face Argentina's efforts when it mattered most.
And the youngster, who was playing in the second tier of Dutch football less than a year ago, failed to reproduce his team-mate's heroics as opposite number Sergio Romero saved from Ron Vlaar and Wesley Sneijder to book Argentina's place in the showpiece against Germany on Sunday.
Ultimately, Maxi Rodriguez sealed a 4-2 shoot-out success, crashing his penalty in off the crossbar via the palms of Cillessen to spark jubilant scenes among the South Americans in the stands in Sao Paulo.
In a contest that was a far cry from the stunning drama of Germany's humiliation of Brazil 24 hours earlier, penalties always seemed the most likely outcome and so it proved.
The last time these two teams met in the knockout stages of a finals - in 1998 - the game was lit up by the sublime quality of Dennis Bergkamp's winning goal, but such moments of outstanding individual brilliance were almost non-existent here.
Much of the build-up was dominated by talk of a battle for supremacy between the two sides' respective talismen, but both Lionel Messi and Arjen Robben were well shackled throughout.
With many neutrals having hoped for a Brazil-Argentina final, the capitulation of the hosts on Tuesday meant that was a distant dream, but the success of Alejandro Sabella's men at least ensures that there will be South American representation in the showpiece.
The Dutch, runners-up four years ago, will now face a wounded Brazil in the third-place play-off in Brasilia on Saturday.
Netherlands made one change from their quarter-final win over Costa Rica as Nigel de Jong - who it was thought had been ruled out of the tournament with a groin strain - made an unexpected recovery to return in place of Memphis Depay.
For Argentina, Marcos Rojo came back from a one-match suspension, and Enzo Perez earned a spot in the absence of the injured Angel di Maria.
Neither side carved out a clear goalscoring opportunity in a turgid first period, Sneijder firing an effort on goal in the 13th minute, but his volley from outside the box was comfortably wide of the left-hand post.Messi threatened for the first time two minutes later, seeing his free-kick well held by Cillessen diving low to his right.
Argentina looked marginally the more dangerous of the two sides and midway through the first half Ezequiel Garay headed Ezequiel Lavezzi's left-wing corner over the crossbar under pressure from Vlaar.
There was a moment of concern for Argentina shortly afterwards, when a clearly dazed Javier Mascherano fell to the floor following a clash of heads with Georginio Wijnaldum.After receiving treatment, Mascherano was able to walk off the field and soon returned to action.
The second period began in much the same fashion as the first, with neither side able to make any inroads in the final third of the field.
Gonzalo Higuain did have half an opening in the 58th minute, but substitute Daryl Janmaat's covering header denied the Napoli man the chance to get on the end of Lavezzi's delivery from the right. Once again, Higuain was unable to capitalise on a rare sight of goal 15 minutes from time, stretching to divert Perez's clever low ball into the side netting from close range.
Rojo tried his luck from distance nine minutes later, but his well-hit drive was straight at an untroubled Cillessen.
Robben's big moment arrived in the first minute of stoppage time as he bore down on goal following a fortuitous ricochet on the edge of the area, but Mascherano recovered brilliantly to deny the Bayern Munich man with a last-ditch tackle.The winger had the first effort of note in extra-time, bringing a routine save out of Romero with a dipping effort from 25 yards after a trademark darting run off the right flank.
There were two late chances for Sabella's men in the final five minutes of the extra period, but both Rodrigo Palacio and Rodriguez failed to gain sufficient power on their efforts to really test Cillessen.
But, with Krul watching on from the sidelines this time, there was little that the young Dutch goalkeeper could do to prevent a clinical Argentina booking their place in the final when the spot-kicks arrived, as first Vlaar and then Sneijder proved wayward before Rodriguez struck the decisive blow.
Argentina reached the World Cup final as they beat Netherlands in a penalty shootout on Wednesday.
Having introduced goalkeeper Tim Krul off the bench to replace number one Jasper Cillessen in the quarter-final shoot-out win over Costa Rica, Louis van Gaal had no such options this time around as Wednesday's semi-final finished 0-0 after extra time.The Dutch had used all three substitutes by that point, leaving Cillessen to face Argentina's efforts when it mattered most.
And the youngster, who was playing in the second tier of Dutch football less than a year ago, failed to reproduce his team-mate's heroics as opposite number Sergio Romero saved from Ron Vlaar and Wesley Sneijder to book Argentina's place in the showpiece against Germany on Sunday.
Ultimately, Maxi Rodriguez sealed a 4-2 shoot-out success, crashing his penalty in off the crossbar via the palms of Cillessen to spark jubilant scenes among the South Americans in the stands in Sao Paulo.
In a contest that was a far cry from the stunning drama of Germany's humiliation of Brazil 24 hours earlier, penalties always seemed the most likely outcome and so it proved.
The last time these two teams met in the knockout stages of a finals - in 1998 - the game was lit up by the sublime quality of Dennis Bergkamp's winning goal, but such moments of outstanding individual brilliance were almost non-existent here.
Much of the build-up was dominated by talk of a battle for supremacy between the two sides' respective talismen, but both Lionel Messi and Arjen Robben were well shackled throughout.
With many neutrals having hoped for a Brazil-Argentina final, the capitulation of the hosts on Tuesday meant that was a distant dream, but the success of Alejandro Sabella's men at least ensures that there will be South American representation in the showpiece.
The Dutch, runners-up four years ago, will now face a wounded Brazil in the third-place play-off in Brasilia on Saturday.
Netherlands made one change from their quarter-final win over Costa Rica as Nigel de Jong - who it was thought had been ruled out of the tournament with a groin strain - made an unexpected recovery to return in place of Memphis Depay.
For Argentina, Marcos Rojo came back from a one-match suspension, and Enzo Perez earned a spot in the absence of the injured Angel di Maria.
Neither side carved out a clear goalscoring opportunity in a turgid first period, Sneijder firing an effort on goal in the 13th minute, but his volley from outside the box was comfortably wide of the left-hand post.Messi threatened for the first time two minutes later, seeing his free-kick well held by Cillessen diving low to his right.
Argentina looked marginally the more dangerous of the two sides and midway through the first half Ezequiel Garay headed Ezequiel Lavezzi's left-wing corner over the crossbar under pressure from Vlaar.
There was a moment of concern for Argentina shortly afterwards, when a clearly dazed Javier Mascherano fell to the floor following a clash of heads with Georginio Wijnaldum.After receiving treatment, Mascherano was able to walk off the field and soon returned to action.
The second period began in much the same fashion as the first, with neither side able to make any inroads in the final third of the field.
Gonzalo Higuain did have half an opening in the 58th minute, but substitute Daryl Janmaat's covering header denied the Napoli man the chance to get on the end of Lavezzi's delivery from the right. Once again, Higuain was unable to capitalise on a rare sight of goal 15 minutes from time, stretching to divert Perez's clever low ball into the side netting from close range.
Rojo tried his luck from distance nine minutes later, but his well-hit drive was straight at an untroubled Cillessen.
Robben's big moment arrived in the first minute of stoppage time as he bore down on goal following a fortuitous ricochet on the edge of the area, but Mascherano recovered brilliantly to deny the Bayern Munich man with a last-ditch tackle.The winger had the first effort of note in extra-time, bringing a routine save out of Romero with a dipping effort from 25 yards after a trademark darting run off the right flank.
There were two late chances for Sabella's men in the final five minutes of the extra period, but both Rodrigo Palacio and Rodriguez failed to gain sufficient power on their efforts to really test Cillessen.
But, with Krul watching on from the sidelines this time, there was little that the young Dutch goalkeeper could do to prevent a clinical Argentina booking their place in the final when the spot-kicks arrived, as first Vlaar and then Sneijder proved wayward before Rodriguez struck the decisive blow.
Mascherano heroics give Messi chance on biggest stage
Lionel Messi and Argentina have finally made it to the World Cup final, but their last-four victory over Netherlands will always be remembered as Javier Mascherano’s moment of glory.
When Maxi Rodriguez’s spot-kick cannoned off Jasper Cillessen and into the net to complete a 4-2 penalty shoot-out success, the Albiceleste players who flocked to the wing man would have been forgiven for running straight for Mascherano instead.
On at least three occasions, he saved his side as a forgettable fixture was highlighted only by the kind of defensive brilliance that Brazil’s hammering against Germany seriously lacked 24 hours earlier.
After a magnificent atmosphere had been built up by the two sets of supporters in the hour leading up to kick-off, the players did their very best to dampen spirits entirely in the 120 minutes that followed.
In complete contrast to the semi-final on Tuesday night, Ezequiel Garay’s flying header from a left-wing corner was as close as either side came in the first half, and only a Messi free-kick easily claimed by Cillessen found the target at either end.
The Dutch were more than happy to sit behind the ball and force Argentina to look for gaps, with the Albiceleste’s slow build-up play resulting in long periods of stalemate.
And while there was a slightly greater sense of urgency on display in the second half, the modus operandi of either side did not change too much. Arjen Robben seemed set to break the deadlock right on full-time, but after being freed by Wesley Sneijder’s flick he took too long to get a shot in, allowing the irrepressible Mascherano to cover with a fantastic challenge.
It took the Dutch until the 99th minute to test Sergio Romero, but even then Robben’s shot from distance was arrowed straight at the Argentina goalkeeper.
During half-time in extra-time, Mascherano – who earlier had appeared out for the count as he laid near-concussed after a head clash with Georginio Wijnaldum – rallied the troops, delivering a pep talk to the rest of the players that seemed to have even coach Alejandro Sabella transfixed.
That this game was always destined for penalties was more thanks to the excellence of Ron Vlaar and Mascherano, who both had more of a say in the match ending scoreless than any of the attackers who fell short in front of goal. It was billed as Messi v Robben but ended up being nothing of the sort.
While Mascherano pulled off most of the memorable interceptions and blocks during the 120 minutes, Vlaar seemed to be in Messi’s shadow throughout, ensuring that the Barcelona genius did not enjoy a single touch in Netherlands' box.
It was so cruel that he should then step up to take the first penalty and fire weakly at Romero. It was a blow from which the Dutch would never recover.
Sneijder was later foiled by a magnificent Romero save and Maxi finished it off.
Messi is the main man heading into the final, but it is thanks to Mascherano that he’ll be playing in one at all.
Lionel Messi and Argentina have finally made it to the World Cup final, but their last-four victory over Netherlands will always be remembered as Javier Mascherano’s moment of glory.
When Maxi Rodriguez’s spot-kick cannoned off Jasper Cillessen and into the net to complete a 4-2 penalty shoot-out success, the Albiceleste players who flocked to the wing man would have been forgiven for running straight for Mascherano instead.
On at least three occasions, he saved his side as a forgettable fixture was highlighted only by the kind of defensive brilliance that Brazil’s hammering against Germany seriously lacked 24 hours earlier.
After a magnificent atmosphere had been built up by the two sets of supporters in the hour leading up to kick-off, the players did their very best to dampen spirits entirely in the 120 minutes that followed.
In complete contrast to the semi-final on Tuesday night, Ezequiel Garay’s flying header from a left-wing corner was as close as either side came in the first half, and only a Messi free-kick easily claimed by Cillessen found the target at either end.
The Dutch were more than happy to sit behind the ball and force Argentina to look for gaps, with the Albiceleste’s slow build-up play resulting in long periods of stalemate.
And while there was a slightly greater sense of urgency on display in the second half, the modus operandi of either side did not change too much. Arjen Robben seemed set to break the deadlock right on full-time, but after being freed by Wesley Sneijder’s flick he took too long to get a shot in, allowing the irrepressible Mascherano to cover with a fantastic challenge.
It took the Dutch until the 99th minute to test Sergio Romero, but even then Robben’s shot from distance was arrowed straight at the Argentina goalkeeper.
During half-time in extra-time, Mascherano – who earlier had appeared out for the count as he laid near-concussed after a head clash with Georginio Wijnaldum – rallied the troops, delivering a pep talk to the rest of the players that seemed to have even coach Alejandro Sabella transfixed.
That this game was always destined for penalties was more thanks to the excellence of Ron Vlaar and Mascherano, who both had more of a say in the match ending scoreless than any of the attackers who fell short in front of goal. It was billed as Messi v Robben but ended up being nothing of the sort.
While Mascherano pulled off most of the memorable interceptions and blocks during the 120 minutes, Vlaar seemed to be in Messi’s shadow throughout, ensuring that the Barcelona genius did not enjoy a single touch in Netherlands' box.
It was so cruel that he should then step up to take the first penalty and fire weakly at Romero. It was a blow from which the Dutch would never recover.
Sneijder was later foiled by a magnificent Romero save and Maxi finished it off.
Messi is the main man heading into the final, but it is thanks to Mascherano that he’ll be playing in one at all.
Vlaar heartbroken after Dutch defeat
Netherlands defender Ron Vlaar has expressed his heartbreak after his side were eliminated from the World Cup on Wednesday.
Louis Van Gaal’s side began the tournament with a stunning 5-1 thrashing of reigning world champions Spain but fell at the semi-final stage on Wednesday night, going down 4-2 on penalties to Argentina after playing out a goalless draw in Sao Paulo.
And Vlaar, who took the first penalty in the shootout only to see it saved by Sergio Romero, says his personal performance over the preceding 120 minutes will offer him consolation.
"I know I had a good game, but in the end you stand here with your hands empty," he told NOS.
"It hurts so much. Our dream has burst. I've done so much to get here."
Wesley Sneijder, who also saw his spot-kick turned away by Romero, expressed echoed Vlaar's grief.
"I don't really know what to say right now," he lamented. "This hurts, especially when you're one of the people to miss."
Netherlands must now pick themselves up for the third-place playoff against hosts Brazil in Brasilia on Saturday.
Netherlands defender Ron Vlaar has expressed his heartbreak after his side were eliminated from the World Cup on Wednesday.
Louis Van Gaal’s side began the tournament with a stunning 5-1 thrashing of reigning world champions Spain but fell at the semi-final stage on Wednesday night, going down 4-2 on penalties to Argentina after playing out a goalless draw in Sao Paulo.
And Vlaar, who took the first penalty in the shootout only to see it saved by Sergio Romero, says his personal performance over the preceding 120 minutes will offer him consolation.
"I know I had a good game, but in the end you stand here with your hands empty," he told NOS.
"It hurts so much. Our dream has burst. I've done so much to get here."
Wesley Sneijder, who also saw his spot-kick turned away by Romero, expressed echoed Vlaar's grief.
"I don't really know what to say right now," he lamented. "This hurts, especially when you're one of the people to miss."
Netherlands must now pick themselves up for the third-place playoff against hosts Brazil in Brasilia on Saturday.
Overachieving Oranje bow out with pride
Netherlands arrived at the World Cup with nobody giving them a chance. The supporters and media back home appeared convinced that they would fail to even get beyond the group stage.
They leave bursting with pride and with their heads held high after only being denied a second consecutive World Cup final appearance by a penalty shootout in Sao Paulo on Wednesday.
Argentina are a better side than Holland and deserve their place in Sunday’s final, but for the Europeans this campaign was just as impressive as their march to the final in South Africa four years ago.
Forty years after the Dutch invented Total Football, Louis van Gaal’s men had to play to their limitations and overachieved to even reach the last four.
The defence was too weak and the squad too young – an average age of just over 26 – to ever seriously compete for the trophy, especially with their most influential midfielder Kevin Strootman out with a knee injury.
That view was presumably shared by the KNVB chiefs who only booked the team's Rio de Janeiro hotel accomodation up until the semi-final, but the team defied expectations.
The style was pragmatic, organised and played to Netherlands’ strengths in attack, where the pace and skill of Arjen Robben, Robin Van Persie and Wesley Sneijder could cause defences problems.
In their opening match they smashed reigning champions Spain 5-1 as they won all three group games, also beating highly rated Chile on the way.
In the knockout stages, they showed heart and team spirit not often association with Oranje squads, coming back at the death to beat Mexico in the last 16 and winning on penalties against Costa Rica in the quarter-finals.
Argentina were a stretch too far, but the campaign was infinitely preferable to the European championships two years ago when they went home in shame having lost all three group games amid infighting and public dissent.
Here, they were a real team and it showed until the last minute as they held off Lionel Messi & Co. and battled through to a goalless draw with Argentina.
"From the bottom of my heart, if you see how everyone was behind the team, I think we can all be very proud of these boys," Robben told NOS after the game.
"I think we should change our mindset quickly, we've done amazingly. At the moment it feels a disappointment, but we've done our best."
A glance at the two starting XIs on Wednesday told the story.
Up against the likes of Messi, Gonzalo Higuain and Ezequiel Lavezzi, Van Gaal again fielded the five-man defence they worked so well in the tournament opener against Spain.
Yet it consisted of four men who had never played their club football outside the Eresdivisie, a 33-year-old striker in Dirk Kuyt and Ron Vlaar.
Who could blame Van Gaal for looking to stifle the game and hit Argentina on the counter-attack with their individual quality in the final third?
Oranje were the underdogs. It was the only way they were ever going to win and it had worked previously in the tournament.
But they played with team spirit and tactical discipline, for which Van Gaal should take the credit. Some of the 62-year-old’s inspired decisions played a key role in Netherlands’ progress to the semi-final.
They go home having failed to imitate their final appearance in 2010 – but with an awful lot of pride.
Netherlands arrived at the World Cup with nobody giving them a chance. The supporters and media back home appeared convinced that they would fail to even get beyond the group stage.
They leave bursting with pride and with their heads held high after only being denied a second consecutive World Cup final appearance by a penalty shootout in Sao Paulo on Wednesday.
Argentina are a better side than Holland and deserve their place in Sunday’s final, but for the Europeans this campaign was just as impressive as their march to the final in South Africa four years ago.
Forty years after the Dutch invented Total Football, Louis van Gaal’s men had to play to their limitations and overachieved to even reach the last four.
The defence was too weak and the squad too young – an average age of just over 26 – to ever seriously compete for the trophy, especially with their most influential midfielder Kevin Strootman out with a knee injury.
That view was presumably shared by the KNVB chiefs who only booked the team's Rio de Janeiro hotel accomodation up until the semi-final, but the team defied expectations.
The style was pragmatic, organised and played to Netherlands’ strengths in attack, where the pace and skill of Arjen Robben, Robin Van Persie and Wesley Sneijder could cause defences problems.
In their opening match they smashed reigning champions Spain 5-1 as they won all three group games, also beating highly rated Chile on the way.
In the knockout stages, they showed heart and team spirit not often association with Oranje squads, coming back at the death to beat Mexico in the last 16 and winning on penalties against Costa Rica in the quarter-finals.
Argentina were a stretch too far, but the campaign was infinitely preferable to the European championships two years ago when they went home in shame having lost all three group games amid infighting and public dissent.
Here, they were a real team and it showed until the last minute as they held off Lionel Messi & Co. and battled through to a goalless draw with Argentina.
"From the bottom of my heart, if you see how everyone was behind the team, I think we can all be very proud of these boys," Robben told NOS after the game.
"I think we should change our mindset quickly, we've done amazingly. At the moment it feels a disappointment, but we've done our best."
A glance at the two starting XIs on Wednesday told the story.
Up against the likes of Messi, Gonzalo Higuain and Ezequiel Lavezzi, Van Gaal again fielded the five-man defence they worked so well in the tournament opener against Spain.
Yet it consisted of four men who had never played their club football outside the Eresdivisie, a 33-year-old striker in Dirk Kuyt and Ron Vlaar.
Who could blame Van Gaal for looking to stifle the game and hit Argentina on the counter-attack with their individual quality in the final third?
Oranje were the underdogs. It was the only way they were ever going to win and it had worked previously in the tournament.
But they played with team spirit and tactical discipline, for which Van Gaal should take the credit. Some of the 62-year-old’s inspired decisions played a key role in Netherlands’ progress to the semi-final.
They go home having failed to imitate their final appearance in 2010 – but with an awful lot of pride.
Van Gaal: I would have thrown Krul on again
Netherlands coach Louis van Gaal admitted he would have replaced goalkeeper Jasper Cillessen with Tim Krul again prior to the penalty shoot-out against Argentina if he had not already made three substitutions.
Krul came off the bench in the final minute of extra-time in the quarter-final spot-kick victory over Costa Rica and promptly made two saves as Oranje squeezed through.
But Van Gaal had already made his full allocation of changes in the 120 minutes and Cillessen was unable to replicate Krul’s heroics as Argentina advanced to a final meeting with Germany 4-2 on penalties after a dire game had finished goalless after extra-time.
"If I could have substituted Jasper I would have done, but I’d already used three substitutes so couldn’t do that," Van Gaal said."I subbed [Daryl] Janmaat for [Bruno Martins] Indi because he had a yellow card already and was often too late and wasn’t executing well.
"I didn’t want to take a risk on Nigel De Jong being injured, and he was the free man in midfield and [Jordy] Clasie can play going forward better than Nigel. I subbed [Robin] van Persie because he was exhausted."It may have been a disappointing exit for Netherlands but they exceeded expectations in reaching the last four and Van Gaal could not hide his pride in what they had achieved in Brazil.
"We had a fantastic tournament, as the Brazilian journalists have expressed," he said. "No one expected us to make it through the group, and after that we defeated Mexico, who are not easy to beat. Argentina are a top country with top players. Penalties are a matter of luck."It’s the most terrible scenario to lose on penalties. If anything, we were the better team, at least equal."
Next up for the Dutch is a trip to Brasilia on Saturday for the third-fourth play-off and a meeting with the host nation who are still reeling from their 7-1 battering by Germany.It is a fixture Van Gaal sees little value in, adding: "I think this should never be played. I’ve said it for 10 years. But we will still play and we have one less day to prepare, which is not fair.
"The worst thing though is that you can lose twice in a row after a tournament in which you have done marvellously well.
"You go home as a loser having lost twice, which is not right. But I’ve said this for 10-15 years. You shouldn’t have players play a match for third and fourth because there is only one award and that is for the champion."
Netherlands coach Louis van Gaal admitted he would have replaced goalkeeper Jasper Cillessen with Tim Krul again prior to the penalty shoot-out against Argentina if he had not already made three substitutions.
Krul came off the bench in the final minute of extra-time in the quarter-final spot-kick victory over Costa Rica and promptly made two saves as Oranje squeezed through.
But Van Gaal had already made his full allocation of changes in the 120 minutes and Cillessen was unable to replicate Krul’s heroics as Argentina advanced to a final meeting with Germany 4-2 on penalties after a dire game had finished goalless after extra-time.
"If I could have substituted Jasper I would have done, but I’d already used three substitutes so couldn’t do that," Van Gaal said."I subbed [Daryl] Janmaat for [Bruno Martins] Indi because he had a yellow card already and was often too late and wasn’t executing well.
"I didn’t want to take a risk on Nigel De Jong being injured, and he was the free man in midfield and [Jordy] Clasie can play going forward better than Nigel. I subbed [Robin] van Persie because he was exhausted."It may have been a disappointing exit for Netherlands but they exceeded expectations in reaching the last four and Van Gaal could not hide his pride in what they had achieved in Brazil.
"We had a fantastic tournament, as the Brazilian journalists have expressed," he said. "No one expected us to make it through the group, and after that we defeated Mexico, who are not easy to beat. Argentina are a top country with top players. Penalties are a matter of luck."It’s the most terrible scenario to lose on penalties. If anything, we were the better team, at least equal."
Next up for the Dutch is a trip to Brasilia on Saturday for the third-fourth play-off and a meeting with the host nation who are still reeling from their 7-1 battering by Germany.It is a fixture Van Gaal sees little value in, adding: "I think this should never be played. I’ve said it for 10 years. But we will still play and we have one less day to prepare, which is not fair.
"The worst thing though is that you can lose twice in a row after a tournament in which you have done marvellously well.
"You go home as a loser having lost twice, which is not right. But I’ve said this for 10-15 years. You shouldn’t have players play a match for third and fourth because there is only one award and that is for the champion."
Aguero: Germany have respect for Argentina
Argentina forward Kun Aguero says is already looking forward to meeting Germany in the World Cup final at the Maracana on Saturday, insisting Joachim Low’s side respect them.
The Manchester City striker missed his side’s victories over Switzerland and Belgium after limping out of their final group game against Nigeria with a muscle injury.
But Aguero returned as a late second-half substitute on Wednesday as Argentina beat Netherlands 4-2 on penalties to book a place this weekend’s showdown with Germany and the 26-year-old is ready to put his injury woes behind him for what he describes as a 'dream' World Cup final.
"The truth is incredible. I am so happy, we cannot believe it," he said.
"I suffered from a mini tear, but I have done everything possible to recover. Luckily we are in the final.
"Germany are always a tough team at the World Cup. But we will continue to play our game. Argentina is Argentina. Germany also have a bit of respect for us."
Javier Mascherano also spoke of his pride at making it to the final, labelling his team’s achievement "brilliant", insisting Sunday’s showdown is something they will likely never experience again.
"We played a brilliant game, without any fear of anything," said the Barcelona man.
"We came into the game of our lives. And now we will enjoy it because this is a once line a lifetime opportunity.
"Hopefully we will be crowned champions on Sunday but, regardless of the outcome, I have no words to express how proud I am… the goal was to be in the final."
Argentina forward Kun Aguero says is already looking forward to meeting Germany in the World Cup final at the Maracana on Saturday, insisting Joachim Low’s side respect them.
The Manchester City striker missed his side’s victories over Switzerland and Belgium after limping out of their final group game against Nigeria with a muscle injury.
But Aguero returned as a late second-half substitute on Wednesday as Argentina beat Netherlands 4-2 on penalties to book a place this weekend’s showdown with Germany and the 26-year-old is ready to put his injury woes behind him for what he describes as a 'dream' World Cup final.
"The truth is incredible. I am so happy, we cannot believe it," he said.
"I suffered from a mini tear, but I have done everything possible to recover. Luckily we are in the final.
"Germany are always a tough team at the World Cup. But we will continue to play our game. Argentina is Argentina. Germany also have a bit of respect for us."
Javier Mascherano also spoke of his pride at making it to the final, labelling his team’s achievement "brilliant", insisting Sunday’s showdown is something they will likely never experience again.
"We played a brilliant game, without any fear of anything," said the Barcelona man.
"We came into the game of our lives. And now we will enjoy it because this is a once line a lifetime opportunity.
"Hopefully we will be crowned champions on Sunday but, regardless of the outcome, I have no words to express how proud I am… the goal was to be in the final."
Hummels in race to make World Cup final
Germany defender Mats Hummels faces a race against time to be fit for the World Cup final clash with Argentina after suffering a knee injury.
The centre-back only played 45 minutes on Tuesday as Germany booked their place in the final with a stunning 7-1 victory over hosts Brazil, with the Dortmund man confirming after the match that the problem had been bothering him for a few days.
Coach Joachim Low opted to withdraw him at the break with Germany 5-0 ahead and cruising into Sunday's final, however, team manager Oliver Bierhoff still expects the defender to be involved and insisted Low had only substituted the 25-year-old as a precaution."Everyone's okay except for Mats Hummels and he's getting further treatment," Bierhoff told German TV station ARD.
"It's a precautionary measure. We assume he'll be able to play in the final."Hummels revealed he had been nursing the problem prior to the semi-final.
"I've had problems with it for a few days," he said. "But for the first time it didn't go away after warm-ups. In the match it got worse and worse."I made the decision that it's perhaps better to take myself out so that I wouldn't break anything.
"We'll have to see exactly what it is. It's not something tiny but fortunately I don't think it's anything that would endanger Sunday."
Germany defender Mats Hummels faces a race against time to be fit for the World Cup final clash with Argentina after suffering a knee injury.
The centre-back only played 45 minutes on Tuesday as Germany booked their place in the final with a stunning 7-1 victory over hosts Brazil, with the Dortmund man confirming after the match that the problem had been bothering him for a few days.
Coach Joachim Low opted to withdraw him at the break with Germany 5-0 ahead and cruising into Sunday's final, however, team manager Oliver Bierhoff still expects the defender to be involved and insisted Low had only substituted the 25-year-old as a precaution."Everyone's okay except for Mats Hummels and he's getting further treatment," Bierhoff told German TV station ARD.
"It's a precautionary measure. We assume he'll be able to play in the final."Hummels revealed he had been nursing the problem prior to the semi-final.
"I've had problems with it for a few days," he said. "But for the first time it didn't go away after warm-ups. In the match it got worse and worse."I made the decision that it's perhaps better to take myself out so that I wouldn't break anything.
"We'll have to see exactly what it is. It's not something tiny but fortunately I don't think it's anything that would endanger Sunday."
Lloris signs new five-year Tottenham contract
Tottenham have confirmed that goalkeeper Hugo Lloris has signed a new five-year contract with the club.
The France international recently returned from the World Cup after reaching the quarter-final stage and is now committed to the Premier League club until 2019.
Following France's elimination by Germany, Lloris hinted at a possible exit but has now underlined his confidence in the club's progression under chairman Daniel Levy and new manager Mauricio Pochettino.
"I spoke with the chairman [Daniel Levy] and I know the club is as ambitious as ever," Lloris told the club's official website.
"It's very important to feel at home at a club and for my family to feel well. I enjoy a great relationship with the club and the fans.
"The arrival of Mauricio Pochettino is important as well. I have a good feeling with him. He is also ambitious.
"Everything is clear in my head and if I've signed a new contract it's because I trust the club and I'm sure we will progress in a positive way.
"Last season wasn't the season we all hoped for but we were still able to finish sixth in the league. We know where we have to improve."
Tottenham have confirmed that goalkeeper Hugo Lloris has signed a new five-year contract with the club.
The France international recently returned from the World Cup after reaching the quarter-final stage and is now committed to the Premier League club until 2019.
Following France's elimination by Germany, Lloris hinted at a possible exit but has now underlined his confidence in the club's progression under chairman Daniel Levy and new manager Mauricio Pochettino.
"I spoke with the chairman [Daniel Levy] and I know the club is as ambitious as ever," Lloris told the club's official website.
"It's very important to feel at home at a club and for my family to feel well. I enjoy a great relationship with the club and the fans.
"The arrival of Mauricio Pochettino is important as well. I have a good feeling with him. He is also ambitious.
"Everything is clear in my head and if I've signed a new contract it's because I trust the club and I'm sure we will progress in a positive way.
"Last season wasn't the season we all hoped for but we were still able to finish sixth in the league. We know where we have to improve."
Messi dedicates win to journalist
Lionel Messi dedicated Argentina's World Cup semi-final victory over Netherlands to an Argentine journalist who was killed in a road traffic accident on the morning of the game.
Jorge 'Topo' Lopez - who was covering the tournament for La Red Radio - died when a stolen vehicle involved in a police chase collided into the taxi he was travelling back to his hotel in.
The 38-year-old previously worked in Barcelona for Sport newspaper, where he became one of Messi's favourite journalists, and the 27-year-old paid tribute to him after the penalty shoot-out victory sealed a place in the final.
The Barcelona star wrote on Facebook: "I'm sending a big, big hug to the whole of Argentina and a souvenir to Jorge 'Topo' Lopez, this victory is especially also for you, my friend. A big hug to the family and lots of encouragement."
A dull semi-final saw the game locked at 0-0 at the end of extra-time, with Argentina goalkeeper Sergio Romero emerging as the hero after saving penalties from Ron Vlaar and Wesley Sneijder.
Argentina will face Germany in the final on Sunday, and Messi struggled to contain his emotions after the game.
"I've had to do doping tests so I can't be in the locker room," he added.
"I feel proud to be part of this squad. What a phenomenon we are involved in, let's enjoy, we have one more step."
Lionel Messi dedicated Argentina's World Cup semi-final victory over Netherlands to an Argentine journalist who was killed in a road traffic accident on the morning of the game.
Jorge 'Topo' Lopez - who was covering the tournament for La Red Radio - died when a stolen vehicle involved in a police chase collided into the taxi he was travelling back to his hotel in.
The 38-year-old previously worked in Barcelona for Sport newspaper, where he became one of Messi's favourite journalists, and the 27-year-old paid tribute to him after the penalty shoot-out victory sealed a place in the final.
The Barcelona star wrote on Facebook: "I'm sending a big, big hug to the whole of Argentina and a souvenir to Jorge 'Topo' Lopez, this victory is especially also for you, my friend. A big hug to the family and lots of encouragement."
A dull semi-final saw the game locked at 0-0 at the end of extra-time, with Argentina goalkeeper Sergio Romero emerging as the hero after saving penalties from Ron Vlaar and Wesley Sneijder.
Argentina will face Germany in the final on Sunday, and Messi struggled to contain his emotions after the game.
"I've had to do doping tests so I can't be in the locker room," he added.
"I feel proud to be part of this squad. What a phenomenon we are involved in, let's enjoy, we have one more step."
Argentina didn't deserve it - Robben
Arjen Robben said Argentina didn't deserve to reach the World Cup final after beating his Netherlands side 4-2 on penalties in Wednesday's semi-final.
There was little in the way of goalscoring opportunities at either end in a disappointing encounter, with the scoreline goalless after extra-time.
The match was decided by a penalty shoot-out and while Tim Krul's quarter-final heroics saw the Dutch beat Costa Rica on spot-kicks, on this occasion misses from Ron Vlaar and Wesley Sneijder proved costly.
Maxi Rodriguez struck the winning penalty for Argentina, but Robben was in no mood to offer his congratulations as he came to terms with the defeat.
"Argentina did not deserve to win," the Bayern Munich winger claimed.
"They did not have many chances and the best chances fell to us. The final? I think Germany have proved more and I have many friends there, so I hope they win the World Cup."
The Oranje will face Brazil in a third-place play-off on Saturday, but when asked about the prospect of ending the competition on a high, Robben could do little to hid his misery.
"Honestly, it's not a title that interests me," he admitted.
"But, I am very proud of this team. Of course it is difficult to fail when you come so close, but the fact we managed to get here is amazing. We mustn't blame anyone, everyone did a great job."
Muller proves once again that Germany do have a star
There is a common perception that Germany have been different to the other major contenders in the World Cup in that they work as a collective unit without relying on one star man to lead them.
Joachim Low’s side don’t have one individual they look to in the same way that rivals have leaned on Lionel Messi, Arjen Robben, Neymar or James Rodriguez.
But is that really true?
As Germany prepare for Sunday’s final against Argentina at the Maracana, they do so with a player in their squad who has a real chance of winning the Golden Boot for the second World Cup in a row.
Thomas Muller scored five goals in South Africa and he has equalled that tally here in Brazil, to take his total to 10 World Cup goals at the age of just 24.
The Bayern Munich star comes alive on the big stage and his performances in Germany’s passage to the final have not been given the credit they deserve.
Muller may not be the easiest on the eye, with his awkward and sometimes clumsy running style and inconsistent first touch.
But he is the focal point of the Germany attack and showed it again in the semi-final massacre of hosts Brazil in Belo Horizonte.
Muller’s greatest impact in the game came before anyone knew it would end with a jaw-dropping 7-1 scoreline. He volleyed in the opener in the 11th minute before teeing up Miroslav Klose for the second 12 minutes later with a typically intelligent run and pass.
That goal made Klose the all-time leading scorer in World Cups with 16 goals from just 23 games.
But Muller still has at least two World Cups in him and will expect to break his compatriot’s record.
Indeed, he boasts an astonishing World Cup record of 10 goals and six assists in 12 appearances in the tournament.
Perhaps he does not catch the eye even in the same manner as some of his more technical team-mates like Toni Kroos, Mesut Ozil or the injured Marco Reus, but Muller is by far Germany’s most important player.
If there is one glaring weakness in the Germany squad, it is the lack of a striker to lead the line beyond 36-year-old Klose, but Muller’s versatility has allowed him to play as the lone frontman during the tournament, including in the opener against Portugal when he scored a hat-trick.
In his more familiar attacking midfield role, Muller has set the tone for Germany with his aggressive pressing, relentless running and efficient use of the ball.
His style is unselfish and he does not come across as the kind of character who wants attention, but that does not mean he doesn’t deserve it.
He was considered a squad player for Bayern Munich for much of last season but still scored 13 goals and created 10 more in 25 starts for the Bundesliga champions.
It is for his country, though, that Muller truly shines.
If Muller scores in the final, he will draw level with James Rodriguez as this World Cup’s top scorer with six goals and go one better than his tally in South Africa four years ago.
And in addition to the Golden Boot, he should be in contention for the Golden Ball as the best player of the tournament.
If he wins it, no-one can still say that Germany don’t have a star player.
There is a common perception that Germany have been different to the other major contenders in the World Cup in that they work as a collective unit without relying on one star man to lead them.
Joachim Low’s side don’t have one individual they look to in the same way that rivals have leaned on Lionel Messi, Arjen Robben, Neymar or James Rodriguez.
But is that really true?
As Germany prepare for Sunday’s final against Argentina at the Maracana, they do so with a player in their squad who has a real chance of winning the Golden Boot for the second World Cup in a row.
Thomas Muller scored five goals in South Africa and he has equalled that tally here in Brazil, to take his total to 10 World Cup goals at the age of just 24.
The Bayern Munich star comes alive on the big stage and his performances in Germany’s passage to the final have not been given the credit they deserve.
Muller may not be the easiest on the eye, with his awkward and sometimes clumsy running style and inconsistent first touch.
But he is the focal point of the Germany attack and showed it again in the semi-final massacre of hosts Brazil in Belo Horizonte.
Muller’s greatest impact in the game came before anyone knew it would end with a jaw-dropping 7-1 scoreline. He volleyed in the opener in the 11th minute before teeing up Miroslav Klose for the second 12 minutes later with a typically intelligent run and pass.
That goal made Klose the all-time leading scorer in World Cups with 16 goals from just 23 games.
But Muller still has at least two World Cups in him and will expect to break his compatriot’s record.
Indeed, he boasts an astonishing World Cup record of 10 goals and six assists in 12 appearances in the tournament.
Perhaps he does not catch the eye even in the same manner as some of his more technical team-mates like Toni Kroos, Mesut Ozil or the injured Marco Reus, but Muller is by far Germany’s most important player.
If there is one glaring weakness in the Germany squad, it is the lack of a striker to lead the line beyond 36-year-old Klose, but Muller’s versatility has allowed him to play as the lone frontman during the tournament, including in the opener against Portugal when he scored a hat-trick.
In his more familiar attacking midfield role, Muller has set the tone for Germany with his aggressive pressing, relentless running and efficient use of the ball.
His style is unselfish and he does not come across as the kind of character who wants attention, but that does not mean he doesn’t deserve it.
He was considered a squad player for Bayern Munich for much of last season but still scored 13 goals and created 10 more in 25 starts for the Bundesliga champions.
It is for his country, though, that Muller truly shines.
If Muller scores in the final, he will draw level with James Rodriguez as this World Cup’s top scorer with six goals and go one better than his tally in South Africa four years ago.
And in addition to the Golden Boot, he should be in contention for the Golden Ball as the best player of the tournament.
If he wins it, no-one can still say that Germany don’t have a star player.
Argentina have made history - Sabella
Alejandro Sabella has praised his Argentina players for having made history in reaching the World Cup final with a penalty shoot-out win over Netherlands.
After a 0-0 draw, the Albiceleste won 4-2 on penalties to set up a clash with Germany at the Maracana in Rio de Janeiro on Sunday.
And Sabella was quick to thank his players for their efforts in seeing off Louis van Gaal’s stubborn outfit.
"I’m very happy for several reasons," Sabella told a press conference after the match. "I’m happy for the players, the entire group of staff, the people of Argentina, my family, for all those who in one way or another have collaborated with the team or made me work to be better."I do this for my family, for the Argentina FA and the people celebrating in Argentina. We’ve made history and made it to the final."In a tight match of few chances, defences were generally on top, and Sabella was pleased with the way his players responded.
"The players are encouraged to make changes when it feels right to change it up during the game. It was exhausting for them to cover the spaces, but they never gave up on the possibility of winning, and that’s why we brought on three attackers as substitutes," he added.
The 59-year-old also reserved a word for Argentina’s opponents in the final, admitting he has huge respect for German football."I have great admiration for two countries from a football point of view, Brazil and Germany," he noted.
"Germany have always shown physical might, and tactical and mental force. They have had a great number of fantastic players, like Rummenigge, Overath, Beckenbauer and others.
"They have had other national players naturalised recently, like Gundogan etc, but still this is a country that knows what teamwork and organisation is and they still have all the attributes they used to have."
Alejandro Sabella has praised his Argentina players for having made history in reaching the World Cup final with a penalty shoot-out win over Netherlands.
After a 0-0 draw, the Albiceleste won 4-2 on penalties to set up a clash with Germany at the Maracana in Rio de Janeiro on Sunday.
And Sabella was quick to thank his players for their efforts in seeing off Louis van Gaal’s stubborn outfit.
"I’m very happy for several reasons," Sabella told a press conference after the match. "I’m happy for the players, the entire group of staff, the people of Argentina, my family, for all those who in one way or another have collaborated with the team or made me work to be better."I do this for my family, for the Argentina FA and the people celebrating in Argentina. We’ve made history and made it to the final."In a tight match of few chances, defences were generally on top, and Sabella was pleased with the way his players responded.
"The players are encouraged to make changes when it feels right to change it up during the game. It was exhausting for them to cover the spaces, but they never gave up on the possibility of winning, and that’s why we brought on three attackers as substitutes," he added.
The 59-year-old also reserved a word for Argentina’s opponents in the final, admitting he has huge respect for German football."I have great admiration for two countries from a football point of view, Brazil and Germany," he noted.
"Germany have always shown physical might, and tactical and mental force. They have had a great number of fantastic players, like Rummenigge, Overath, Beckenbauer and others.
"They have had other national players naturalised recently, like Gundogan etc, but still this is a country that knows what teamwork and organisation is and they still have all the attributes they used to have."
Liverpool close in on Lovren, Markovic and Origi
Liverpool are on the brink of finalising deals for Dejan Lovren, Lazar Markovic and Divock Origi.
The trio are expected to join the Anfield club in the coming days as Brendan Rodgers looks to fine tune his squad, with Luis Suarez about to join Barcelona in an €88 million deal.
Belgium forward Origi, who shot to prominence with his performances at the World Cup, arrived at Melwood on Wednesday for talks over a switch to Anfield from French club Lille.
Goal understands the 19-year-old attacker was shown around the club's training complex and agreed personal terms, with Tottenham's reported late interest in the talented striker wide of the mark.
Benfica winger Markovic, meanwhile, is expected to fly to England to undergo a medical on Thursday, with Liverpool having agreed to pay his £19.8m release fee.
The former Partizan player, who turned 20 in March, has been tipped to become a future star, with caretaker Serbia boss Ljubinko Drulovic believing he can become a "major worldwide player" by joining Rodgers' side.
Liverpool are also looking to bring in defensive cover in the form of Southampton defender Lovren, with Daniel Agger's long-term future unclear and Mamadou Sakho, Martin Skrtel and Kolo Toure having struggled at times last season.
Lovren has already stated his desire to join the Merseysiders and will shun interest from Arsenal and Tottenham to seal his dream move to Anfield, with Liverpool just needing to negotiate a fee with Southampton.
A deal for the Croatia centre-back would represent the Reds' third signing from their Premier League rivals, with Rickie Lambert and Adam Lallana having already joined ahead of the 2014-15 campaign.
Liverpool are on the brink of finalising deals for Dejan Lovren, Lazar Markovic and Divock Origi.
The trio are expected to join the Anfield club in the coming days as Brendan Rodgers looks to fine tune his squad, with Luis Suarez about to join Barcelona in an €88 million deal.
Belgium forward Origi, who shot to prominence with his performances at the World Cup, arrived at Melwood on Wednesday for talks over a switch to Anfield from French club Lille.
Goal understands the 19-year-old attacker was shown around the club's training complex and agreed personal terms, with Tottenham's reported late interest in the talented striker wide of the mark.
Benfica winger Markovic, meanwhile, is expected to fly to England to undergo a medical on Thursday, with Liverpool having agreed to pay his £19.8m release fee.
The former Partizan player, who turned 20 in March, has been tipped to become a future star, with caretaker Serbia boss Ljubinko Drulovic believing he can become a "major worldwide player" by joining Rodgers' side.
Liverpool are also looking to bring in defensive cover in the form of Southampton defender Lovren, with Daniel Agger's long-term future unclear and Mamadou Sakho, Martin Skrtel and Kolo Toure having struggled at times last season.
Lovren has already stated his desire to join the Merseysiders and will shun interest from Arsenal and Tottenham to seal his dream move to Anfield, with Liverpool just needing to negotiate a fee with Southampton.
A deal for the Croatia centre-back would represent the Reds' third signing from their Premier League rivals, with Rickie Lambert and Adam Lallana having already joined ahead of the 2014-15 campaign.
Germany were nervous - Neuer
Manuel Neuer has revealed Germany were a bag of nerves ahead of their 7-1 World Cup semi-final demolition of Brazil.
Joachim Low's side inflicted the most incredible of defeats over the host nation on Tuesday night, as goals from Thomas Muller, Toni Kroos (2), Miroslav Klose, Sami Khedira and Andre Schurrle (2) secured victory.
The win means Germany will face Argentina in the final after the South American nation beat Netherlands on penalties on Wednesday.
Die Mannschaft will go into the game as favourites after their thrashing of the Selecao, but Neuer has admitted he and his team-mates felt the full weight of the occasion prior to the semi-final.
"Before the match, it was like what it's been for most of the matches, a bit tense, a little nervous," he said in an interview with Times of India.
"You can plan, but what happens on a football field cannot be predicted. It was more tense since we were playing in the semi-final, and against the hosts who have such a rich football history.
"We all were eager to be on the field and try to do what we have been doing so far."
The game was over as a contest by half-time, with Germany leading 5-0, and at that point Neuer says an air of calm swept over the dressing room.
"There was a sense of satisfaction," the Bayern Munich keeper admitted.
"We all knew we had done what we wanted to do. But there were 45 more minutes and we needed to be alert. We expected them to come back - it was a shame I conceded a goal but I could do nothing about it."
Manuel Neuer has revealed Germany were a bag of nerves ahead of their 7-1 World Cup semi-final demolition of Brazil.
Joachim Low's side inflicted the most incredible of defeats over the host nation on Tuesday night, as goals from Thomas Muller, Toni Kroos (2), Miroslav Klose, Sami Khedira and Andre Schurrle (2) secured victory.
The win means Germany will face Argentina in the final after the South American nation beat Netherlands on penalties on Wednesday.
Die Mannschaft will go into the game as favourites after their thrashing of the Selecao, but Neuer has admitted he and his team-mates felt the full weight of the occasion prior to the semi-final.
"Before the match, it was like what it's been for most of the matches, a bit tense, a little nervous," he said in an interview with Times of India.
"You can plan, but what happens on a football field cannot be predicted. It was more tense since we were playing in the semi-final, and against the hosts who have such a rich football history.
"We all were eager to be on the field and try to do what we have been doing so far."
The game was over as a contest by half-time, with Germany leading 5-0, and at that point Neuer says an air of calm swept over the dressing room.
"There was a sense of satisfaction," the Bayern Munich keeper admitted.
"We all knew we had done what we wanted to do. But there were 45 more minutes and we needed to be alert. We expected them to come back - it was a shame I conceded a goal but I could do nothing about it."
Klose is no Ronaldo - Mourinho
Jose Mourinho has applauded Miroslav Klose for becoming the top goalscorer in World Cup history, but says he is not a patch on Brazil great Ronaldo.
The 36-year-old's first half tap-in in Germany's 7-1 semi-final thrashing of Brazil took his tally to 16 goals in the competition - one ahead of the former Barcelona and Real Madrid star.
Every one of Klose's World Cup strikes have come inside the penalty area, in contrast to Ronaldo's range of long distance hits, solo efforts and close-range goals during a stunning international career.
As a result, Mourinho was disappointed to see the former Barcelona and Real Madrid star lose his tournament record and revealed there is only one player he rates more highly than the Brazilian in the game's history.
"Hats off to Klose," Mourinho said to Yahoo. "I highly respect the numbers he has achieved but the truth is that a player who I consider the best after Maradona lost a record.
"I believe that Ronaldo was the best player of the last two decades - at least he doesn't lose the title of being the best of the past 20 years."
Mourinho worked with Ronaldo during his solitary season at Barcelona in 1996-97, as part of Bobby Robson's coaching staff, with the 37-year-old scoring 34 goals in 37 games at Camp Nou.
Jose Mourinho has applauded Miroslav Klose for becoming the top goalscorer in World Cup history, but says he is not a patch on Brazil great Ronaldo.
The 36-year-old's first half tap-in in Germany's 7-1 semi-final thrashing of Brazil took his tally to 16 goals in the competition - one ahead of the former Barcelona and Real Madrid star.
Every one of Klose's World Cup strikes have come inside the penalty area, in contrast to Ronaldo's range of long distance hits, solo efforts and close-range goals during a stunning international career.
As a result, Mourinho was disappointed to see the former Barcelona and Real Madrid star lose his tournament record and revealed there is only one player he rates more highly than the Brazilian in the game's history.
"Hats off to Klose," Mourinho said to Yahoo. "I highly respect the numbers he has achieved but the truth is that a player who I consider the best after Maradona lost a record.
"I believe that Ronaldo was the best player of the last two decades - at least he doesn't lose the title of being the best of the past 20 years."
Mourinho worked with Ronaldo during his solitary season at Barcelona in 1996-97, as part of Bobby Robson's coaching staff, with the 37-year-old scoring 34 goals in 37 games at Camp Nou.
Argentina wanted penalties - Sneijder
Wesley Sneijder is convinced Argentina were content to play for penalties after Netherlands were knocked out of the World Cup semi-finals 4-2 on spot-kicks.
Neither side could break the deadlock over 120 minutes of action, with Arjen Robben denied by a last-ditch tackle from Javier Mascherano, before Rodrigo Palacio and Maxi Rodriguez went close for the Albiceleste.
That mean the lottery of a penalty shoot-out, where Sergio Romero saved from Sneijder and defender Ron Vlaar for Argentina to clinch a place in the World Cup final, much to the dismay of the Galatasaray midfielder.
"We deserved more," the 30-year-old insisted.
"Argentina gambled on deciding the game on penalties, while we always tried to win. I missed my penalty, I am sorry, but we could also have scored one of our opportunities in the 120 minutes."
Dirk Kuyt was in similarly despondent mood after the game and in no mood to congratulate Argentina on their victory, claiming he was not impressed with Alejandro Sabella's side.
"Argentina have not impressed, despite having players the calibre of [Lionel] Messi," he added.
"We have expressed a great defensive game, but we did struggle to find [Arjen] Robben and [Robin] Van Persie.
"I'm disappointed, we came so close to reaching a second successive final."
Netherlands face Brazil in the third place play-off on Saturday as they bid to round off the competition on a high note.
Wesley Sneijder is convinced Argentina were content to play for penalties after Netherlands were knocked out of the World Cup semi-finals 4-2 on spot-kicks.
Neither side could break the deadlock over 120 minutes of action, with Arjen Robben denied by a last-ditch tackle from Javier Mascherano, before Rodrigo Palacio and Maxi Rodriguez went close for the Albiceleste.
That mean the lottery of a penalty shoot-out, where Sergio Romero saved from Sneijder and defender Ron Vlaar for Argentina to clinch a place in the World Cup final, much to the dismay of the Galatasaray midfielder.
"We deserved more," the 30-year-old insisted.
"Argentina gambled on deciding the game on penalties, while we always tried to win. I missed my penalty, I am sorry, but we could also have scored one of our opportunities in the 120 minutes."
Dirk Kuyt was in similarly despondent mood after the game and in no mood to congratulate Argentina on their victory, claiming he was not impressed with Alejandro Sabella's side.
"Argentina have not impressed, despite having players the calibre of [Lionel] Messi," he added.
"We have expressed a great defensive game, but we did struggle to find [Arjen] Robben and [Robin] Van Persie.
"I'm disappointed, we came so close to reaching a second successive final."
Netherlands face Brazil in the third place play-off on Saturday as they bid to round off the competition on a high note.
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