SAO PAULO, July 10 — Argentina are not intimidated by facing Germany in the World Cup final despite seeing them tear hosts Brazil to shreds in the semis, striker Gonzalo Higuain said today.

“There’s no intimidation, not at all. There is respect. They will also be worried that Argentina is in the final,” Higuain told reporters after his side beat the Netherlands 4-2 in a penalty shootout to book a place in the final.

Germany thrashed Brazil 7-1 yesterday in one of the most shocking results in soccer history, but Higuain said Argentina had no reason to fear anyone.

“We’re in the final and the other stuff doesn’t matter. Everyone who plays struggles and fights to the death.”

Argentina beat the Netherlands 4-2 on penalties following a 0-0 draw after extra time in their semi-final today. — Reuters