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Published on February 3, 2008

The kings of the five-a-side game, Samba are really determined to take home the plate this time after a 7-0 whitewash over Australia in the semi-finals boosted their confidence.

"We lost to Argentina in 2003 and also fell to them in the final at Conmebol World Cup qualification in Paraguay the following year.

"Although, we have lost four main players including Lenisio due to injury, we will do everything to beat Argentina," said team manager Fernando Ferretti.

The Argentines, who almost missed the chance of defending their title as they could only hold Australia on Friday, overcame their lethargic start to oust Thailand 5-3.

The Thai boys, whose only consolation was the US$15,000 prize money for their efforts, had entered their maiden semi-finals without two key players, Kiarttiyot Chalaemkhet and Lerdchai Issarasuwipakorn, who were booked in the previous matches.

And goalkeeper Surapong Tompa also was absent due to a finger injury.

Unfortunately, the Thais also lost their captain Panuwat Janta when they were trailing 2-1 in the first half, and found themselves in difficulty as Anucha Manchareon's double was not enough to give them any advantage.

The Netherlands may face a tough task when they take on Iran in the final of Divi-sion 2.

Somporn Suphop

The Nation

Kuala Lumpur