Feb 7 • 11:17 UTC 🇨🇿 Czechia Aktuálně.cz

Blow for the team. Zacha is injured and dropped from the squad, Chlapík will replace him

Czech hockey player Pavel Zacha is reportedly out of the Olympic team due to injury, with Filip Chlapík expected to take his place.

Czech hockey player Pavel Zacha is facing a significant setback as he has reportedly been injured and will not be part of the national team for the upcoming Olympic Games in Milan. The confirmation of his injury has not yet come from the national team's management, but it is anticipated that Filip Chlapík from Sparta will step in for Zacha. Chlapík is expected to arrive in Italy this evening, ready to join the team ahead of the games.

Zacha, who was part of the world championship team two years ago, sustained his injury on January 30 during a match against Philadelphia, which caused him to miss two subsequent NHL games. National team coach Radim Rulík has expressed concerns over the situation, stating that he hoped all nominated players would arrive in time for the Olympic departure. He admitted that he did not have definitive information regarding Zacha's fitness, indicating uncertainty as the tournament approaches.

In addition to Zacha's injury, there are also concerns about Martin Nečas from Colorado, who had previously been sidelined but is expected to be fit and arrive in Milan on Sunday with other NHL players. The team's preparation has faced hurdles, particularly with Zacha's absence, who was a key player. With the Olympics on the horizon, the team must adapt quickly to these changes and ensure they can perform at their best despite the setbacks.

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