Paez Up For U.S. Test

See Reference28/03/03

Venezuela coach Richard Paez is shrugging off the short timeframe for their U.S. friendly in Seattle to pin some hopes on his world #69-ranked side.

The perennial CONMEBOL also-rans, who have been touted as one of the most improved teams in the hemisphere, are standing in for Japan with a week to prepare.   "I'm optimistic because I believe in my boys, their ability and skill, despite the late notice,” Paez declared. "Our goal is to test ourselves and see if Venezuela has the confidence to play at the world level.”

”It's essential that we play friendlies with teams that have Fifa's best rankings.”

The two nations last met on the pitch in the 1993 Copa America with Venezuela rallying from 3-0 down for a draw.