World Cup final to be a 'clasico': Beckenbauer

Rio de Janeiro, July 12 (IANS/EFE) German football legend Franz Beckenbauer said the FIFA World Cup final between Argentina and Germany could end up being a "clasico" because of terrific players who will play in good atmosphere and conditions at the Maracana Stadium here Sunday.

The Bayern Munich honourary president said that Argentine great Diego Maradona was a more exceptional player than current FC Barcelona striker Lionel Messi, reports Efe.

The 'Kaisar', who lifted the 1990 World Cup as a coach against Argentina, also highlighted the defensive durability of Argentina, comparing it to the Brazilian defence line which completely collapsed against Germany in the semifinal.

The Germans hope to repeat the 1990 World Cup final against Argentina when Beckenbauer led the team as a coach to lift their third and last World Cup.

--IANS/EFE

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