Vittek calms record talk

Slovakia striker could make history against Dutch

By Razwan Mirza   Last updated: 25th June 2010   Subscribe to RSS Feed

Vittek calms record talk

Vittek: Targeting record

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Robert Vittek is unconcerned by talk that he could break Szilard Nemeth's all- time national goalscoring record when Slovakia take on Holland for a place in the World Cup quarter-finals in Durban on Monday.

The striker's header in the 1-1 draw against New Zealand and his two goals in the sensational 3-2 victory against Italy, which sent the reining champions tumbling out of the competition, put the Ankaragucu striker level with the former Middlesbrough man on 22 goals.

The 28-year old is also joint top-scorer at the World Cup along with Argentina's Gonzalo Higuain but the modest striker is as much concerned about the progress of the team as himself.

"I am not thinking about that (goalscoring record)," admitted the Bratislava born goalscorer.

"Of course I'm pleased for myself, but I'm also pleased for the team."

Inspiration

As the country's second most capped player behind the injured Miroslav Karhan, Vittek aims to inspire fellow Slovaks.

"Vittek is not just a great striker, he is a great guy and holds us together," admitted defender Peter Pekarik.

"He is one of the most experienced players. His success will have a big influence on us and motivates us."

Meanwhile, defender Jan Durica is backing Vittek to end up as the tournament's top scorer.

"I will be so happy if in the next game (against Holland) he scores three goals."