The stars to watch: 4. The strikers

By Richard Pedler

JAKARTA (JP): Among the star strikers missing from USA'94 are Van Basten and Gullit (Holland), Sosa and Fonseca (Uruguay), as well as Papin, Shearer, Yeboah, Weah, and Kolyvanov (Russia, by choice).

In the past, the World Cup has been blessed with the deadliest strikers. Just Fontaine hit 13 in six games for France back in 1958. In 1970, Jairzinho scored in all seven matches Brazil played, while Der Bomber Gerd Muller was the last to make double figures with 10 the same year.

Another double-figure scorer is well overdue, and this could happen thanks to the unevenness of the groups. With two of the weakest teams in Group F, a flood of goals may come to Denis Bergkamp or Josip Weber, thus creating a modern record to match the legends of old.

Gabriel Batistuta, Argentina (1 Feb. 1969)

Although playing with Caniggia and/or Balbo, Argentina's leading scorer can create goals out of nothing and without need of support.

Dennis Bergkamp, Holland (18 May 1969)

He may find it tough as the lone forward star, but if Bergkamp can finish off the chances that Dutch play usually creates, he will show the class that cost Internazionale US$12 million.

Rashidi Yekini, Nigeria (23 Oct. 1963)

Giant forward with incredible speed off the mark, a powerful shot and excellent ball control. Top scorer this year in Portugal, and Africa's Footballer of the Year.

Jurgen Klinsmann, Germany (30 July 1964)

The caring environmentalist is back after prematurely retiring in 1991. Most defenders will wish he had. Mr. "Take-a-Dive" insists that the 'Perfect Six' is just an expression of his mental and physical commitment.

Bebeto, Brazil (16 Feb. 1964)

In two years his goals have taken Deportiva La Coruna from relegation fodder to the verge of the Spanish title. More mobile than Romario, this will be his only World Cup. Modest but deadly.

Josip Weber, Belgium (16 Nov. 1964)

Scored five goals on his debut earlier this month, the only Croatian at USA'94.

Tomorrow: OPENING CEREMONY