Latvia set for Ecuadorian challenge
Thursday, March 14, 2002
Article summary
Latvia will play Ecuador in England on 16 April at Saint Mary's stadium in Southampton.
Article body
Latvia will play FIFA World Cup finalists Ecuador in England on 16 April at Saint Mary's stadium in Southampton. The ground was chosen because two Latvians and two Ecuadorians are currently on the playing roster at the FA Premiership side.
'The players will like it'
Latvian coach Aleksandr Starkovs is pleased to be playing Ecuador as a warm-up before their EURO 2004™ qualification campaign. "It would be unwise to miss the chance to play a World Cup team," he said. "I think the players will like the game as well."
Pleasure for Pahars
For Southampton FC favourite Marian Pahars it will be a particular pleasure, playing in the Latvian colours at the club where he enjoys cult status. Ecuadorian internationals Augustin Delgado and Kleber Chala and Latvian Imants Bleidelis also ply their trade at Southampton.
Awkward situation
After accepting Ecuador's offer to play, the Latvian Football Federation is in an awkward situation as they have another friendly scheduled for the following day. Kazakhstan refused to move their match, which was due to be played on 17 April in Ventspils, so Latvia will be forced to use only domestic players for the friendly.
