A gold will be for Rafa Benitez - Javier Mascherano
JAVIER MASCHERANO is on a mission to win Olympic gold for Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez.
The Argentinian midfielder lines up against Everton's Nigerian striker Victor Anichebe in tomorrow's football final in Beijing (kick-off 5am).
Mascherano has played a key role in his nation's passage to the final and is desperate to secure a second successive gold following Argentina's triumph in Athens four years ago.
The 24-year-old Anfield star could have been denied the opportunity to defend his medal following a ruling that allowed clubs to withhold their players from Olympic duty.
However, Benitez opted not to recall him and Mascherano is eternally grateful for his manager's support.
"If I win, I'll dedicate my success to Rafa," he said.
"He's a very important person in my life. I hope to God I can take another gold to Liverpool."
Benitez added: "It's a fantastic achievement for Mascherano.
"To have the chance to win another gold medal is very positive for him. For a player of his age to have won so many trophies and picked up so much experience is amazing.
"I have been talking with him during the competition because he is a player who always wants to know the news from back here. He is enjoying the Olympic Games but he is aware of what is happening with Liverpool."
Meanwhile, Blues frontman Anichebe is determined to wreck Mascherano's dream.
The Nigerians crushed Belgium 4-1 in the semis and confidence is high they can repeat the nation's gold medal winning heroics of 1996.
Anichebe, who was a second half substitute in the semi-final, insisted: "We don't fear anyone. If we stay focused and play our game, we will win."
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