Ambassadors upbeat ahead of Cup final

Shayne Fairman, Sunday Gleaner Writer

Argentine Ambassador to Jamaica, Ariel Fernandez, and outgoing German Ambassador Josef Beck are both extremely happy with their country's presence in today's 'dream final' of the FIFA World Cup.

Both remain upbeat about winning football's most coveted trophy.

"I can't predict a score. I remain optimistic that we will win because the team is always making progress. In a competition, the first rule is never to underestimate your opposition. In 1986, we led 2-0 against Germany, they equalised so we will be cautious of them," Fernandez said.

He adds that Germany's 7-1 win over Brazil will influence a lot of people, but today anything can happen.

"Every team has a different style of play. Our approach will be how to stop them and come up with a psychologically defensive approach," Fernandez said while commending Jamaican supporters of Argentina.

"Since we just played our fourth consecutive semi-final there is a feeling that it is time for more. I do not expect 'hurray' football, but I expect goals in regular time. The game might be won by one or maximum two goals," Beck outlined.

"The winners will have to give everything. I believe in the team's quality, not due to the result against Brazil, but because of our consistently high level of play throughout the tournament."

Surprise and disbelief

Beck notes that Germany have what it takes to win, but thinks they'll need a bit of luck.

He also believes the team's showing at this World Cup was amazing for all, especially the 7-1 thumping of Brazil.

"We have feelings of surprise and disbelief. Nobody could have imagined such a crushing victory over a great football nation like Brazil," the German ambassador who completed his three-year tour of duty here on July 4 and leaves the island today. "These were wonderful and rewarding years. I will miss the island and its people. I thank Jamaica for the amazing support shown in all areas," he said.