9 June 2002, 13:37 Seoul - Tokyo
Beckham reveals drama of tension-filled Argentina winner
KOBE, Japan, June 9 (AFP) - England skipper David Beckham said how he "nearly stopped breathing" as he tried to compose himself for his match-winning penalty against bitter rivals Argentina.
Beckham revealed that mental images of his 1998 sending-off against Argentina were flooding into his mind as he prepared to take the crucial 'Group of Death' spot-kick.
He maintained his cool to rifle home a low shot past Pablo Cavallero in the Sapporo Dome - and admitted he knew how much victory meant.
"As a footballing nation, this moment was made for us. We've been waiting for this a long time so it's nice that it's come," Beckham said.
"It definitely beats the 5-1 win in Germany. No doubt about it. There is so much history between these two sides, but ultimately it's nice to be able to walk away from it and put it to rest.
"I really don't know what was going through my mind when we got the penalty.
"There were certain flashbacks from four years ago, especially when the ball went in the net.
"It was one hell of a moment. I had to take some deep breaths. At one point, I even nearly stopped breathing.
"It was an emotional time really but I think it was nice for the fans as well," he said.
"The stadium was packed with England supporters and nearly the whole stadium scored that penalty.
"They were willing it into the net. I'm tired now but the result got me through it," said Beckham, who has warned his team-mates against complacency against the already-eliminated Nigeria on Wednesday.
A point will be enough to take England through to the second phase but Beckham said memories of his side's poor display against Sweden were still fresh.
"We are not through yet though and we can't become complacent," he said.
"We can't afford to sit back like we did against Sweden in the second half or we will be in trouble. We have to go on from here as there is too much to lose now."
bur/rcw/ps02
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Go Becks!