Slavia Hit by Igoh Ogbu Absence Ahead of Champions League Clash with Inter
Written by Alonge Akinlolu on 29 — 09
Czech champions Slavia Prague will head into Tuesday’s UEFA Champions League clash with Inter Milan without two of their most important players. Defender Igoh Ogbu and captain Tomáš Holeš are both sidelined, dealing a major blow to coach Jindřich Trpišovský’s side.
Holeš picked up an injury in the recent play-off tie against Bodø/Glimt, while Ogbu remains unavailable. Despite the setback, assistant coach Zdeněk Houštecký insists the team is determined to make the most of the opportunity in Milan.
“Every game, we want to win. Six years ago, we drew 1-1 with Inter here after conceding in stoppage time. Later, we played AC Milan but were reduced to ten men. Hopefully this time, luck will be on our side,” Houštecký said before the team’s departure.
Slavia recently battled a virus within the squad, but most players are now fit to feature. The coaching staff is expected to rely on younger defenders such as David Zima, Tomáš Vlček, and Štěpán Chaloupek to cover for the absentees.
Forward Ivan Schranz, who scored against AC Milan in a 4-2 defeat last season, believes the experience at the San Siro will help the team stay competitive. “The atmosphere there is special, and we’ll be motivated to do even better this time,” he noted.
Slavia will also be boosted by a strong travelling support, with fans expected to turn up in large numbers to create a lively atmosphere in Milan.
