If it was Ronaldo of World Cup Final in 1998, the greatest blunder committed yet in this edition was unleashed in Quarterfinal match of Germany and Argentina. Creator was none other than Argentina's coach Pekerman.
How did he do that? Argentina leading 1-0 and with 62% possession and controlling the game and here he comes up with 2 substitutions - Cambiasso coming on for Riquelme and Cruz on for Crespo. The game changed with Germany henceforth dominating an eventually equalising and then losing on penalties, Cambiasso missing his penalty. Ok, let's excuse Cambiasso of this penalty miss, he did gave us the best goal of the tournament, may be in history of tournament. But why were these put on when only 18 minutes were left. And why for losing sake - Riquelme? He was back in control, dictating the game to Germans in German half. Was Riqueleme injured? No, so far no such reports have come out. Then why Cruz on for Crespo? What was Pekerman trying to do here, nothing but trying to give chances to Germans. Why not Messi or Saviola? How come Argentina got into defensive strategy when you know that Germans were giving more and more space at their backyard. Whatever it may be, tactical move or normal changeover, it was worst possible decision and nothing but move to lose, which eventually did happen.
Pekerman resigned just after the match but not before leaving doubts if he did play any intentional spoil sport. I hope this is simple case and not the case of Ronaldo's mysterious subdued game in the final of 1998. Ok Football is beautiful game, then he has disappointed all of us, be it Argentina fans or people looking for an El Classico between Brazil and Argentina.
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