Latvia's hockey coach Artis Ābols comments on the absence of player Rodrigo due to injury ahead of the Olympic hockey tournament, expressing confidence in his team's current lineup.
Artis Ābols, the head coach of Latvia's national hockey team, has shared his thoughts on the upcoming Olympic hockey tournament, emphasizing the anticipation after 12 years of waiting. He noted the excitement surrounding the event, particularly highlighting Slovakia's surprising win over Finland in the tournament's opening match. Latvia is set to play their first game against the USA on Thursday, with live broadcasts available on various platforms including LTV7 and LSM.lv.
A significant concern for the team is the injury of Rodrigo, the son of coach Ābols, which will keep him out of the tournament for at least two months, according to the coach. This injury requires last-minute adjustments to the team lineup, showcasing the importance of Rodrigo as a player. Ābols mentioned that center player Zemgus Girgensons will fill a crucial role due to the lack of alternatives, underscoring the depth and the high stakes of the competition as Latvia prepares to face top opponents at the Olympics.
Despite the setback with Rodrigo's injury, Ābols remains optimistic about the team's strength with several top players ready to compete. He expressed confidence in the current squad, stating that while they miss Rodrigo, they have the best available players on the team. This sentiment reflects the resilience and determination of the Latvian hockey team as they gear up to make a significant impact at the Olympic Games in Milan, aiming for a successful campaign.
