“Maradona will help us”

At the official press conference of the Argentine national team before the final match of the Davis Cup, its captain Alberto Mancini called the cover chosen by the hosts a pleasant surprise.

The Argentines sat down at the table in full force, including Guillermo Cañas, who only walked off doping disqualification. Now he is starting to gain confidence in the captain and is already included in the team as the fifth player. That is, the court will be released only in case of force majeure.

Of course, the audience was interested in whether Diego Maradona would come to the finals. All tennis players made such faces, as if they learned about the possible visit of the great Argentinean for the first time.

“We heard that he could come to Moscow,” Alberto Mancini said. “But we know about it as much as you do.” Of course, such a fan would not hurt us. This is a very good fan.

Add that very funny. At least he will arouse in the Russian capital no less interest than Mike Tyson, who has been here recently.

They asked the Argentines and their impressions of Moscow.

“We only managed to take a walk on the day of arrival,” Mancini answered. - Were on Red Square. This is amazing.

Following the protocol courtesies went and tennis issues. The captain of the national team was asked about the coverage of the Olimpiysky site, on which the Russian side has particular hopes. After all, it is believed that on fast courts Russians are stronger. Mancini hinted that this was a fallacy.

“Yes, this is not the coating that we prefer,” the Argentinean began, but then changed his tone. - But, having arrived here, they found a pleasant surprise. The rebound from this court is not very high. And the speed is lower than what we expected. Therefore, we successfully adapt to it.

The captain hid who will play in single meetings. But he admitted that he had already decided on the composition for himself. They tried to find out from him about some “secret weapon”, without which the Russians could not be defeated.

“Our main weapon is team spirit,” Mancini cheerfully reported. - Of course, we know that the Russian team will have huge support in Moscow. But all our tennis players are ready for this. I only hope that Moscow fans will support their team in a civilized manner.

Argentine players tried to keep silent, giving the initiative to the captain. Only David Nalbandian was asked if he enjoyed authority in the team as its best player.

“No, we are all equal,” said the athlete predictably. “I don't feel like a leader.” I think if I play badly, my comrades will replace me.

It remains unclear what will happen with replacements if everyone plays poorly.

Alexey Shevchenko


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