Pubdate: Mon, 05 Jul 2004
Source: Vanguard (Nigeria)
Copyright: 2004 Vanguard.
Contact:  http://www.vanguardngr.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/2890

CASTRO LURES MARADONA TO CUBA

President Fidel Castro characterized himself as a friend and admirer of 
Diego Maradona and said he hopes the Argentine former soccer superstar can 
return to Cuba, where he spent several years undergoing treatment for drug 
problems.

"I hope he can come," Castro told reporters late Wednesday during a 
reception at the home of Argentine Ambassador, Raul Taleb. Maradona, 43, 
has been undergoing medical treatment in Argentina in recent weeks for 
serious lung and heart problems.

The Cuban leader said he recently had a "friendly" telephone conversation 
with Maradona, who bears a tattoo of Castro's face on one leg.

"He has struggled with the problem he had and it hasn't been easy," Castro 
said of Maradona. "He is a person who has prestige, fame. I think he is a 
noble guy and undoubtedly, a great athlete."

Castro's visit to the reception was not announced in advance. During 
several hours, he spoke behind closed doors with Argentine diplomats and 
businessmen, then answering reporters' questions before leaving the 
residence around midnight.

Maradona, in recent months, has repeatedly said he wants to return to Cuba, 
but his family has fought to keep him in Argentina for a series of ongoing 
health problems.

Maradona came to Cuba for drug treatment in early 2000, after being 
hospitalized in Uruguay with a severe heart condition, and stayed in Cuba 
for the better part of three years. His most recent round of health 
problems emerged while visiting Argentina.

In his 20-year career, Maradona led his country to the 1986 World Cup title 
and the 1990 World Cup final. He also won Italian and Argentine league titles.

In 2000, FIFA chose him and Pele as the greatest players in soccer history. 
He retired in 1997. Maradona was suspended from the Italian league while 
playing for Napoli in 1991 for 15 months following a positive test for 
cocaine. Three years later, FIFA suspended him for 15 months for a positive 
drug test at the World Cup finals in the United States
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MAP posted-by: Keith Brilhart