BUENOS AIRES, Sep. 1 (Xinhua) - Argentine midfielder Exequiel Palacios said Thursday that the Albiceleste have the talent and self-belief to win this year's FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
Argentina ended an 18-year wait for a major trophy by winning last year's Copa America in Brazil - a feat Palacios believes could kick-start a period of sustained success for the two-time World Cup winners.
"I have confidence in the Argentine squad that we are going to give everyone a decent fight," the Bayer Leverkusen player told Argentine TV.
"The team earned everyone's respect in the Copa America. The respect and unity of the group is the most important thing and that is later reflected on the pitch."
The 23-year-old said the mere presence of seven-time Ballon d'Or winner Lionel Messi in Qatar would provided a major boost to his teammates.
"We have the tools - we have the best player in the world. How can we not get excited?" Palacios added.
The World Cup will be played from November 20 to December 18. Argentina have been drawn in Group C alongside Saudi Arabia, Mexico and Poland. ■
