Farewell Fiesta in Argentina (25 May 2006 16:27 GMT)
The Argentinean national squad helmed by Jose Pekerman played a game against under-20 team in front of 50,000 spectators at the Monumental de Nunez stadium in Buenos Aires yesterday.
There were two halves of 25 minutes played and senior team won 4-0. After a goalless first half, man-of-the-match Rodrigo Palacio came on to grab a hat-trick while Javier Saviola netted the other goal. Almost all players played, the exceptions being Hernan Crespo and Leandro Cufre who were both rested to recover from upset stomachs.
"The most important thing this evening was the support and encouragement we got from the crowd," said Crespo.
Lionel Messi, who played a few minutes to show he was recovering well from a March 7 muscle pull that sidelined him for weeks, was thinking similarly.
"The backing of the people is just incredible. It really gives us real momentum heading to Germany and motivation to perform well," said Messi.
Coach Jose Pekerman agreed saying that the fans' enthusiasm was contagious.
"We will always remember this night. It's going to be a huge help for us when we get to Germany," Pekerman said.
Amid flying confetti Wednesday night, fans waved signs reading: "Good luck, Argentina!" "Argentina we love you!" and "Go, Champions!"
"We will always carry this moment with us. We are deeply touched," Argentine coach Jose Pekerman said.
After the match the delegation headed to the airport and to Rome where the Argentinians will make their start in Europe. Next Tuesday the Albicelestes will play a friendly against Angola in Salerno, then move north to Nurenburg.
source : Goal.com, Xtratime Community, AP, RivalsDM