
Scaloni: This is my response to Raphinha, and it was a collective victory
Argentina's coach Lionel Scaloni spoke to the press following the team's 4-1 victory over Brazil in the South American qualifiers for the World Cup.
Scaloni said: "It was a collective victory because we played as one team, and that’s why we succeeded in narrowing the gap with Brazil. It’s the only way to overcome these players. I believe we played fantastic matches, and the most important thing is to understand each game individually."
He added: "There will be games where we struggle and others where we won't. We need to show that we can play under different conditions."
He continued: "No one knows how long this (success and victories) will last, the important thing is to enjoy the moment. I hope it lasts as long as possible, we will try."
He emphasized: "It’s difficult to pressure a team with such technical efficiency. I believe the first goal made them open up more spaces. We managed to exploit the spaces better, especially with this type of players, who adapt excellently."
Regarding Raphinha's statements before the match: "Whether there were statements or not, both teams would have played in their own style. Raphinha is defending his country, and I don’t believe there is any intention to harm anyone."
He added: "There is still a lot to be done, and a lot can happen. We move from one task to another, and we enjoy being here."
He concluded: "I am lucky to have a great group of players, and I assure you that I do not teach them how to play. It’s important for them to realize that playing collectively, sometimes with one touch, and other times with strength, can help them, but they are the ones who go out to play."
Scaloni said: "It was a collective victory because we played as one team, and that’s why we succeeded in narrowing the gap with Brazil. It’s the only way to overcome these players. I believe we played fantastic matches, and the most important thing is to understand each game individually."
He added: "There will be games where we struggle and others where we won't. We need to show that we can play under different conditions."
He continued: "No one knows how long this (success and victories) will last, the important thing is to enjoy the moment. I hope it lasts as long as possible, we will try."
He emphasized: "It’s difficult to pressure a team with such technical efficiency. I believe the first goal made them open up more spaces. We managed to exploit the spaces better, especially with this type of players, who adapt excellently."
Regarding Raphinha's statements before the match: "Whether there were statements or not, both teams would have played in their own style. Raphinha is defending his country, and I don’t believe there is any intention to harm anyone."
He added: "There is still a lot to be done, and a lot can happen. We move from one task to another, and we enjoy being here."
He concluded: "I am lucky to have a great group of players, and I assure you that I do not teach them how to play. It’s important for them to realize that playing collectively, sometimes with one touch, and other times with strength, can help them, but they are the ones who go out to play."