Batistuta sees English win as deserved

June 8, 2002

SAPPORO, Japan, June 7 (AFP) -- Argentina striker Gabriel Batistuta said England's World Cup victory over his country here Friday was deserved - but rued the penalty which left his country staring elimination in the face.

"If England hadn't got that penalty I don't know what would have happened. But that's the World Cup for you,"said 'Batigol', who for once drew a blank as he failed to add to his tally of 56 international goals in a 1-0 Argentine defeat.

Speaking after David Beckham won the match with his spotkick, Batistuta told reporters: "It was a clear win for England, they take the three points and now we have to beat Sweden. We have to stay confident - all's not lost."