Lavezzi: ‘It’s going to be a magnificent match’

What are you expecting from this match between France and Argentina? 
“Above, it’s going to be a magnificent to watch. Both teams feature some fantastic players. France is full of world class players… Argentina too! These are two sides with enormous potential and lots of ambition. As an Argentinian, I hope Argentina win. But above all, I think it’s going to be a beautiful match to watch. The fans are going to love it. There are great players in both teams.”

Did Argentina give you a scare during the group phase? 
“No, no. I’ve spent a lot of time with the players in that team, I know what they’re worth and the sacrifices they make for the team. I never lost confidence in the team. Sometimes, the football world is unfair and lacks respect. I think the team was too heavily criticised back home. But I never doubted we would go a long way in the competition. I always believed in these players and I will believe even more every match. They give everything for the national team. This generation has done everything except win this title but I am convinced this team will make its mark.”

What will be the key to the match? 
“It will be a physical game. France play very good football and are very strong physically. It will be physical and also quite open because both sides love to attack. Both teams can hurt the other at any moment. Both will have to be careful.”

You still show so much joy on social media when Argentina win…
“How could I not be passionate? I’m Argentinian aren’t I? And I spent so much time with this team, so much time with my friends… I really hope it goes well for them, even if we all know how it goes in these big games, someone wins and someone loses.”