Blatter praises Owen, Chilavert

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Posted: Saturday July 11, 1998 10:52 AM

Owen's performance not only impressed World Cup fans, but FIFA's president Sepp Blatter (AP)

PARIS (Reuters) -- Teenage England striker Michael Owen has clearly left a lasting impression with FIFA chiefs nearly two weeks after departing the World Cup stage.

Owen received glowing praise from Sepp Blatter on Saturday when the FIFA president was asked on the eve of the final which players had been most impressive.

"There was a youngster who scored a marvelous goal and had the courage to take a penalty in the shoot-out against Argentina," said Blatter. "I think you all know I am talking about Michael Owen."

Blatter also praised Paraguay's Jose Luis Chilavert, describing the free kick-taking goalkeeper as "an outstanding personality."

Chilavert was named this week to FIFA's all-star team while Owen was listed among the reserves.

UEFA boss Lennart Johansson had been impressed by French captain Didier Deschamps and said Brazil striker Ronaldo had also begun to show his true capability.

"The Laudrup brothers, too," said Johansson of Denmark's Brian and Michael. "People said they were too old but they've both played exceptionally well."

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