Maradona's reign begins in earnest
China Daily | Updated: 2009-03-28 08:12
BUENOS AIRES: Diego Maradona's reign as Argentina coach begins in earnest when his side face Venezuela in a World Cup qualifier on Saturday, his home and competitive debut.
Maradona's presence is expected to revive public enthusiasm in the national side which has dipped after a run of uninspiring performances under his predecessor Alfio Basile.
The atmosphere at the Monumental Stadium has been strangely subdued in recent games, far from the intimidating, paper-throwing crowd which has traditionally greeted visiting teams.
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