Maradona lashes out at media critics

Argentina coach Diego Maradona has dedicated his side's qualification for the 2010 World Cup to the people of Argentina, after a solitary goal from Mario Bolatti gave them victory over Uruguay in their final qualifier. He also lashed out at the journalists in Argentina for the criticism he received during the qualifying campaign.

"It's going to all Argentinians, except the journalists," he told a press conference.

"They (journalists) treat me like dirt, but we qualified with honor. I dedicate this to all of the Argentinian people and my family, but one sector does not deserve it (referring to journalists) because they treated me like garbage. They invented fights with (Carlos) Bilardo, among other things."

"This qualification is thanks to my players, who played like men and now consecrate my role as a coach."

The coach also took time to wish Uruguay well in the play-offs and said they were a worthy opponent on the night.

He added, "Uruguay has a very good team and a coach in (Oscar) Tabarez that I admire and respect. Uruguay can qualify for the World Cup.

"That is what I want because I have many friends in their country."