Figueroa gives Pekerman striking options

Argentina coach Jose Pekerman believes he has discovered a new attacking jewel in Luciano Figueroa.

The Villarreal striker scored a hat-trick in the 4-2 win over Australia on Saturday, a result that confirmed Argentina's place in the semi-finals.

If they win their showdown with hosts Germany tomorrow they will top the group and face the prospect of meeting arch-rivals Brazil, who are no longer favourites to win Group B after yesterday's defeat to Mexico.

Figueroa, who also scored twice in Argentina's World Cup qualifying win against Bolivia this month, is now a serious challenger to Hernan Crespo and Carlos Tevez.

"I'm very, very happy with the way he played," said Pekerman of Figueroa, who once played for English club Birmingham City.

"He's an excellent player. He has the character and precision that's required. He's very fast.

"That wasn't always as apparent in earlier matches. Luciano had a very good match and that will obviously be considered in our decision-making."

Figueroa said he was delighted to be given his chance.

"It's a beautiful thing for me to be among those getting a try-out," he said. "It was a super opportunity for me."

Pekerman was full of praise for his team after their erratic victory over Australia, which followed an equally mixed effort in their earlier 2-1 defeat of Tunisia.

But he knows tomorrow's Group A clash with Germany, who have also won both their matches, will be crucial.

Germany have not beaten a top team since 2000, and will be determined to end that humiliating drought in front of a sell-out crowd.

"We know we're playing against the home team," Pekerman said. "Germany are a very strong team. We have to analyse what we've done in the first two matches."

Argentina were 3-0 ahead after 61 minutes against Australia before a lapse allowed them to claw it back to 3-2. Figueroa then completed his hat-trick to settle their nerves.