Maradona Explains Why Messi Didnt Play Canada Game And His World Cup Promise

Argentina are by many considered to be one of the favourites to win the 2010 World Cup, but this hasn't stopped head coach Diego Armando Maradona from making a rather obscure promise if the Argentinians indeed win the tournament.

The flamboyant gaffer has promised that he'll run naked through the streets of Buenos Aires if the Albiceleste lift the trophy in South Africa after the World Cup final on July 11.

"If we win the World Cup, I'll get naked and run around the Obelisk in the centre of the city," Maradona was quoted as saying by reporters, according to AP.

Maradona also revealed that he had to explain to Lionel Messi why the Barcelona star didn't play in the international friendly against Canada earlier this week.

"If something would have happened to you in that match, I'd have been kicked. You can imagine where," said Maradona to his star player.

Argentina will have to deal with Nigeria, Greece and South Korea in the group phase of the 2010 World Cup.