Argentina will go into tomorrow's quarter-final against hosts Germany determined to honour the memory of their World Cup-winning side of 1986.

Twenty years ago, the team were inspired by Diego Maradona to victory over West Germany in the final in Mexico City.

The Germans took revenge against the same opponents four years' later, making it one-apiece in the run-up to Friday's match in Berlin's Olympiastadion.

Argentina coach Jose Pekerman believes there is a connection between the 1986 vintage and the current players.

He said: "This side has some similarities to the old team - the way they play, some of the positions the players take up.

"We will go out to try and honour the team that won in 1986 - and we know just how difficult it is to get the final. This team is trying to make history again."

Pekerman still has doubts over midfielder Luis Gonzalez and right-back Nicolas Burdisso, who missed the 2-1 win over Mexico due to injury.

He added: "We'll wait until the last moment to see if they recover before I decide on the starting XI.

"But we have great strength in depth - Argentina's strength is in the entire squad of 23 players and their attitude is superb, that's what makes me optimistic."

Pekerman also had some kind words for his German opposite number Jurgen Klinsmann, praising him for reinvigorating the hosts.

"It'll be a clash of two favourites," said Pekerman. "Unfortunately, one of us has to go out, despite us both having done a lot of good things in this World Cup.

"Germany have been very impressive and a lot of that is due to Klinsmann. He has overseen a renewal in their attacking style that has brought them some good results.

"Just like Argentina, they always try to play good football."

Argentina's playmaker Juan Roman Riquelme has been the target of criticism in his home country for his World Cup performances, despite being regarded by many neutrals as the outstanding player of the tournament so far.

Pekerman dismissed the criticism, saying: "In my opinion, he has had an excellent World Cup so far.

"I trust him completely and we need to tune in more to the way Roman plays."