Argentina to thrive on the hatred of Brazilian crowd
Argentina defender Pablo Zabaleta has taken his country’s status as public enemy number one in the host nation in his stride – claiming that the hatred from the Brazilian crowds fires up him and his teammates:
“It’s special for us to play in this country. Especially as Brazilian fans have been against Argentina at this World Cup.”
“Sometimes, if you have all the people against you, you feel even stronger.”
Opponents Germany also seem to have noticed the Brazilians’ dislike of their near neighbours, with defender Benedikt Howedes hoping for some additional support from the locals:
“All of us are hoping for support from the Brazilians.”
“I thought it was a wonderful gesture the way Brazilians celebrated for us.”