Argentina needs final win against Brazil
(Agencies)
Updated: 2004-07-25 15:33

Argentina can't afford to lose to Brazil in the Copa America final on Sunday.

Any loss to the old enemy is a torment to Argentines, but to fail against what is effectively Brazil's "B" team would be even worse at National Stadium.

Argentina's first final anywhere in 11 years has inspired its demanding fans, and started to heal the wounds from the 2002 World Cup disaster, when the pre-Cup favorite was ousted in the first round.

Coach Marcelo Bielsa also badly needs the victory. Beloved by his players but belittled by his countrymen, Bielsa's devotion to attacking soccer would be validated, and help keep the job he's held since 1999.

"Anything less than the best would be considered a tremendous disappointment," Bielsa said.

The teams met only last month in World Cup qualifying, and Argentina lost 3-1 on three penalty kicks. Argentina has seven back from that side, and welcomes the return of Valencia defender and captain Roberto Ayala, who was suspended.

Brazil returns just two starters from that match: Bayer Leverkusen defender Juan and Arsenal midfielder Edu.

Coach Carlos Alberto Parreira rested his major stars and brought his second-best outfit.

"Argentina and Brazil came in different stages to this Copa America, but both enter the final equally prepared," Edu said. "They have the advantage of having a more experienced team, but we have shown on the field that we can play with quality against anybody."

Brazil has a ready-made excuse should it fail. Brazil has never beaten Argentina in the Copa finals, finishing second in eight of Argentina's 14 championships.

"Our success in this competition won't be measured by the final result," Parreira said. "We really want the title, but we already gained a lot just by being able to closely observe this group of talented players."

Even so, it's Argentina vs. Brazil, and nothing is surrendered easily in one of sport's greatest rivalries.

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