Soccer: Crespo happy for Brazil to be favourites

BUENOS AIRES - Argentina striker Hernan Crespo said he was happy for rivals Brazil to be considered as favourites to win the 2006 World Cup.

Crespo remembered that Argentina arrived at the previous World Cup as favourites, only to be knocked out in the first round, while Brazil started as dark horses and went on to win a fifth world title.

"It's best not to talk about Argentina as favourites," he told reporters on Tuesday.

"Let's see how they (Brazil) handle the pressure this time.

"When we were the candidates at the other World Cup, we didn't do well, so it's best not to have to go with that sort of pressure. Brazil are the ones with the best chances."

Argentina beat Brazil 3-1 in a World Cup qualifier in June in Buenos Aires, when Crespo scored twice, but Brazil hit back to win 4-1 in the Confederations Cup final three weeks later when Crespo was being rested.

The two South American giants have already made sure of their places in Germany.

Argentina are at home to Peru, already eliminated, in a World Cup qualifier on Sunday and away to Uruguay three days later when they complete their 18-match programme.

"Even if we're already qualified, there are no easy matches and they're all useful for something," said Crespo.

Argentina will be looking for a significant improvement on their last game, when they lost 1-0 in Paraguay.

- REUTERS