Open invite to Klose's exclusive "16 club"

[Jonathan Fairfield]

Open invite to Klose's exclusive "16 club"

Miroslav Klose is delighted to have established his '16 club' after becoming the World Cup's top-scorer, but says it counts for nothing if Germany lose to Argentina in Sunday's final.

The 36-year-old broke Brazil legend Ronaldo's record when he netted his 16th World Cup goal in Germany's 7-1 hammering of the Selecao in Tuesday's semi-final.

The veteran is poised to play in his second World Cup final at Rio de Janeiro's Maracana Stadium, 12 years after being on the losing side when Brazil claimed a 2-0 win in the 2002 final in Yokohama.

"Yes, I have overtaken Ronaldo as the best goal-scorer, but that is something to take on board another day," said Klose.

"I'm fully focused on Argentina and if we lose the final, my joy as the top-scorer will be significantly dampened."

Ronaldo welcomed Klose 'into the club' when the German hot-shot equalled the Brazilian's previous record of 15 goals in the 2-2 draw with Ghana in the group stages.

Lazio star Klose said Ronaldo is still hailed as a football god in Italy and the German welcomes any ambitious striker to join him in his exclusive club at future World Cup finals.

"Ronaldo was a first-class striker, I play in Italy and they still say there he was the best player to grace the Italian game," said Klose, after the retired Ronaldo played for both Inter and AC Milan during his career.

"I saw him play and I can only agree with that.

"He was the strongest player I have seen and had a great personality with it.

"It must haven been bitter for him to see his record broken on home soil.

"He welcomed me to the 15 club, all I can say is it's great to be in Miroslav Klose's 16 club and I'd welcome anyone to join me."

-- (c) Copyright AFP 2014-07-11