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Argentina's Mascherano tore anus during tackle that saved Argentina

​It is fair to say that Javier Mascherano endured a lot of pain to reach the World Cup final.

He revealed in a press conference that he "tore his anus" while making the all-important tackle against Arjen Robben in the final minute of the goalless game against Netherlands.

The Argentines emerged victorious over the Dutch after a penalty shootout.

Describing the tackle at the second half of extra time, Mascherano said: "I thought I had slipped. I thought I wouldn't make it but I tore my anus on that move. The pain... it was terrible.

"I threw myself into it. I could have been sent off. It could have been a penalty but anyone could have done that. I had the luck to get there.

And this wasn't the only time in the game where he hurt himself.

Earlier in the match, Mascherano, 30, collapsed on the pitch after a head-to-head collision with Holland's Georginio Wijnaldum.

He left the field for a few seconds only to return again as though nothing had happened.

But for him, it's all worth it as the World Cup final will most likely be the apex of his career.

"I cried at the end because I have spent a lot of time waiting for this moment," said Mascherano.

Sources: The Independent, Mail Online

Photo: AFP

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