Oscar Garré (69), world champion with the Albiceleste in Mexico ‘86, previews the final in New Jersey. In conversation with El Deportivo he does not underestimate Spain’s power, but warns that the Albiceleste’s experience gives them an advantage.
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How do you see the final?
Both teams arrive evenly matched. Argentina has overcome two incredible matches in the last two phases, arriving with high morale. When you pass through direct elimination stages, you face the best teams, and in these instances, you cannot make a mistake.
Is Argentina the favorite?
It’s difficult to put one above the other. Argentina has more seasoned players, with more experience. Playing in the big leagues, always with full stadiums and with high-caliber players, that helps you grow as a professional. You mature emotionally, you have it at your fingertips. So, all those things help you when the game starts, when the ball rolls. I say that nervousness is already overcome.
What is Argentina’s strength?
It’s a very balanced team, with many young players competing in major leagues, which provides a lot of experience.
How do you see Messi?
He is a guy who took care of himself throughout his career. He has a well-established family, both his wife and parents. That also helps his useful life be as he is demonstrating, that he has a very good physical, mental, and emotional state. He is one of those leaders who always stand out above others, and that can also be an advantage for the Albiceleste
Is it a team that has been growing?
It went from less to more, settling into the tournament. And now you’re passing these stages and realizing that there’s less and less time left. So, as we used to say, it’s one more step and you’re there.
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The team received a lot of criticism at the beginning…
It’s true, but when you win and reach this stage, words are carried away by the wind. In ’86, everyone criticized coach Carlos Bilardo and ended up apologizing. When we returned, they received him with banners asking for forgiveness. Football is and always has been that way.
Is Scaloni‘s hand noticeable in this team?
He is a great professional, the way he works, the profile he maintains, always with humility and sacrifice. Luckily, he is now managing to build another great story.
Is it special to beat England?
People experienced it with great joy; everything we lived through between both countries because of the Malvinas is brought back. We, in 1986, never mixed things up, because the players have nothing to do with this. But the fans make you feel it.
How was that match experienced in 1986?
There was a lot of tension, but both we and the English never mixed things up. So much so that when the match ended, we exchanged jerseys and greeted each other. It was never mixed with the Malvinas War; it was a football match, only that.
If Messi is champion again, does he surpass Diego Maradona?
It’s difficult to compare, because the situation and times are different. In his time, Diego was better, just as Messi is now. Notice that he is quite advanced in age and yet remains important. It’s a topic decided by journalism and the people themselves. And I saw Diego do incredible things, but now we are enjoying this guy who is surely a step above the rest.
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