Serbian spirit channelled by Aleksić
Monday, May 5, 2008
Article summary
Serbia captain Danijel Aleksić struck two superb goals in last night's opening 2-0 Group A defeat of Scotland and says he is proud to be leading the team in Turkey.
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Trademark acrobatics
Serbia were being held 0-0 until the last kick of the first half – an outrageous, acrobatic volley from Aleksić. The striker then produced a powerful finish three minutes after the interval to confirm victory, and according to Serbia coach Dejan Djurdjević the moment that changed the game was no fluke. "It was not the first goal he has scored like this in his career," Djurdjević said. "He scored one like this against Slovakia in the Elite round. People who have been watching him for a while will know this is a trademark goal."
Delight
Aleksić scored a tournament-leading five in the Elite round, and seven overall in qualifying, and last month struck his first Serbian Superliga goal for FK Vojvodina, having 12 months ago became the youngest-ever player in that league at 16 years and five days. He was nothing but modest about his latest achievement, however. "I am very happy to score two goals," Aleksić said. "I didn't actually play that well in the first half but I got lucky in the last minute, and I am delighted with that very important goal."
Leadership role
He only turned 17 on Wednesday, but Aleksić has a mature head and takes his role as the team leader seriously. "I don't just want to be the captain on the pitch but also off the pitch and back in the hotel, where we are enjoying the facilities," he said. "Of course, I feel the pressure having been the top scorer in the Elite round and being so much the focus on the pitch, but I always try to do my best for the team."
Netherlands challenge
Victory against the Netherlands, beaten last night by hosts Turkey, could take Serbia into the semi-finals one game early on Wednesday, but Aleksić knows the Dutch present a formidable challenge. "I know the Netherlands have a very good side, they have a good football academy and their players are with famous clubs," he said. "But we will still try to do our best as we are also a very good team and will make things tough for them. If they win we will congratulate them, if not we will be happy!"