Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni said his team expected a tough challenge against Cape Verde after grinding out a 3-2 extra time win in the FIFA World Cup Round of 32 on Saturday.
The defending champions were made to work hard as Cape Verde came from behind twice before Argentina finally secured victory in extra time.
“That was for those who said we had an easy run in the draw,” Scaloni told reporters after the match.
“Sure, we deserved to win and go through, but it was an extremely difficult match.”
Argentina entered the game as clear favourites. But Cape Verde matched them for long spells and forced the holders into a long and tiring battle.
“They finished the match absolutely knackered,” Scaloni said about his players.
“There are areas for improvement, but they’ve shown resilience. The players are tired because of extra time – too many minutes – and some cramps. But when they play with their hearts, they can overcome anything.”
“The team showed their character and their worth today.”
Scaloni admitted the match became even more difficult after Cape Verde scored a stunning second equaliser in extra time.
“I just wanted the match to be over,” said Scaloni. “You saw the stunning goal they scored. I’m always wary. I was calmer than I looked.”
“Everyone thought it would be a walk in the park, but we knew it wouldn’t be.”
The Argentina coach dismissed the idea that his players felt extra pressure because they were favourites.
“No. The best thing about this team is that it just keeps going, keeps going, keeps going. The boys keep attacking with their heart on their boots,” he said.
“I think we rose to the occasion. The pitch was strange; the ball wouldn’t run as we are used to, not ideal at all.”
Scaloni said the match reflected the spirit of Argentine football.
“What does it mean to be Argentine? To suffer,” he said.
“Cape Verde gave 200 percent, and in football that levels things out. The fans are the first to understand that this is Argentina and nothing for us is easy.”
“There is something special to this jersey. We will keep going forward and there is no way we haven’t come out of this stronger and will be moving forward.”
