Kaviedes - looking to reach second-round (Allsport)
KAVIEDES RELAXED FOR CUP CAMPAIGN
Click here to place your World Cup bets!
Click here for Ecuador Team Section
Click here for teams index
Click here for latest World Cup headlines
Click here for World Cup photo gallery
Click here for World Cup Bettingzone
Ecuador striker Ivan Kaviedes is in relaxed mood
as the South American's prepare for their first ever appearance at the World Cup
finals.
The former Real Valladolid and Celta Vigo star is in upbeat mood about his
nations chances, despite a tough Group G draw.
After an opener against Italy on June 3, Hernan Dario Gomez's side then face
Mexico and France 98 semi-finalists Croatia.
He said: "I am taking everything calmly, but I cannot wait for when the
moment arrives.
"Not only for us players, but also for the whole country, because this is the
first time we've been here and it gives you a real desire to take part."
Despite finishing second in the notoriously tough South American qualifying
group, Kaviedes knows Ecuador have to take things step by step as they go into
the unknown.
He added: "Our first aim is to get through the group and then try to advance
further.
"We have got a winning mentality and that always helps. We played against
teams such as Milan, Bulgaria and Yugoslavia and beat them all.
"We are enjoying a good run, but you can't think about the games you have
played, but those you have to play.
"It's true there are teams with more experience than us, but everything is
competitive in modern football.
"We have got here thanks to our tactics and when the team has a solid base,
something always remains."
|