Goans back up Brazil, Spain
By CHARLES D’SOUSA
MARGAO, JUNE 11
Brazil, Portugal, Spain and Argentina seem to be the favourites of some of Goan coaches, international players and ex- internationals.
Armando Colaco, head coach of Dempo Sports Club said that Brasil will be the champions. “The former champions have the best in the world. Their players are in good shape. Brazil has an advantage because most of the team members play in the best leagues across the world.”
Savio Madeira, India assistant coach and former international felt that there were few countries who can really match up Spain. “Spain’s showing in the European Cup was too good and if they can repeat that performance they will come on top.”
“England and Germany are also good. Then there is Argentina. The teams are geared up and we will be able to watch an exciting brand of football for one month.”
Chandrakant Naik, former India goalkeeper, will be backing Portugal . “Portugal is my favourite team. I admire Cristiano Ronaldo. The team has shown good unity and they will progress quite far in the championship.”
Climax Lawrence, international midfielder, is rooting for Brasil. “My favourite is Kaka as he is very impressive. Ronaldo is also my favourite but I hope Brasil will win.”
“There are tough teams like Argentina who always give a good fight. Even the Spanish team is good.”
Arnaldo Costa, outstanding football organiser from Curtorim Gymkhana, pointed out that it was too early to predict the winners. “Let the first round be completed and then one will be able to know the strengths and weaknesses of the teams. It is too early to say much about the prospects, although Brasil and Spain are being rated quite high.”
