Sandis Ozoliņš, one of the Latvian men's hockey team coaches, highlighted the team's awareness of the USA's strong reputation as they prepare for their Olympic competition. In an interview, Ozoliņš noted that despite the formidable opponent, the Latvian players are enthusiastic and ready to showcase their skills on an international stage. The team has been in Milan for a week, fully immersing themselves in the Olympic spirit and camaraderie ahead of their first match.

Ozoliņš emphasized the great mood within the Latvian squad, as they have experienced the nuances of the Olympics both individually and as a unit. As they gear up for their match against the USA, scheduled for 22:10 Latvian time, they have set expectations for positive results and victories, reflecting not only their desire but also the hopes of their supporters who follow Olympic hockey closely. The coach acknowledged the importance of winning, especially in critical games against such recognized competitors.

While not wanting to dwell on specific strengths of his team, Ozoliņš reiterated that the main priority for the players will be to fight hard, recognizing the challenge posed by their opponents. He expressed confidence in the team's ability to rise to the occasion despite the pressure, focusing on the game plan rather than the narrative surrounding them as underdogs. The upcoming match is viewed as a significant opportunity for the Latvian team to make an impact and potentially surprise the hockey world in their Olympic journey.