POLITICS

Happier times ahead?

Argentina ground to a halt at the end of 2001. After decades of economic bungling, the country plunged into its most severe economic crisis ever. Debt repayment was stopped and accounts frozen, leading to violent protests. For the past three years the South American country has been recovering. But President Nestor Kirchner's prescriptions for reform remain controversial. Private creditors have had to accept debt restructuring packages, losing much of their money. Industrial revitalization is being pursued with an artificially weak peso. Plenty of structural problems still plague this oncewealthy nation; today nearly 40 percent of the 38 million Argentineans live below the poverty line. Almost half of the employed work under the table, and even the energy supply is not secure. All of which explains why Argentineans are pessimistic about their future.

THE SPORT

Fears of hooliganism

The streets of Buenos Aires are deserted when internationals are broadcast live. Football is a dominant theme in society and a source of national identity. Of the 20 firstdivision teams, 12 hail from the province of Buenos Aires. Yet anyone with any connection to the sport is expected to declare their allegiance to one of the capital's two leading clubs: the longstanding rivals Boca Juniors and River Plate. Hooliganism has become an unwelcome feature of the country's antiquat- ed stadiums, sometimes forcing the cancellation of entire fixture lists. Even armed police won't venture into some sections of stands.

TEAM AND TACTICS

Prolonged hangover

Despite last winning the tournament 20 years ago, the Gauchos will again rank among the favorites in Germany. Finishing top of the South American group, the country sealed its World Cup ticket in June 2005 with a heady 3-1 victory over arch-rivals Brazil. Juan Roman Riquelme and Hernan Crespo notched the goals: Villarreal's midfield maestro and the Chelsea striker, a constant menace in the air and scorer of seven of the team's qualification goals, are automatic choices in coach José Pekerman's team. They are likely to be backed by dependable Inter Milan veterans Javier Zanetti and Walter Samuel. Beyond that, many questions remain. Following a series of defeats last autumn, the team seemed rattled. Carlos Tevez and especially Lionel Messi - who is enjoying an outstanding season alongside Ronaldinho in Barcelona and already being touted as a superstar - are both forcing their way into the team. Following in their wake is yet another new generation of top talent (see page 38). Some 52 percent of Argentineans nonetheless expect their team to disappoint at the finals.

STAR PLAYER

Juan Roman Riquelme

This eldest son of a family of 10 is viewed as the rightful heir to Diego Maradona's throne. In his farewell game in 2001, the Argentinean football legend personally bestowed the supreme honor upon Riquelme. Leaving the field after 60 minutes, Maradona stripped off to reveal a T-shirt with the number 10 - and the word "Roman," the midfield strategist's nickname. Riquelme remained in the Argentinean league for longer than most. It took the kidnapping of his brother Cristian to persuade the gifted player to cross the Atlantic. Barcelona invested $10.5 million for his signature but thencoach Louis van Gaal was unable to get the best out of the introverted ball artist. Riquelme (27) was then loaned to Villarreal and has since been impressing audiences with his displays. He was the driving force behind Villareal's successful Champions League campaign this season.