New Delhi: Delighted with his low ranked
side's impressive showing in the hockey World Cup, Argentina
coach Pablo Lombi said the South American team's improved
performance in the mega event would open up doors of
opportunities for the development of the game back home.
The 14th ranked Argentina today defeated Canada 4-2 in
their last group match to finish fourth in Pool A above New
Zealand and qualify for the seventh-eighth play-off match
against India on Friday.
"For Argentina the eighth place finish is very important.
It would create lot of possibilities to play more
international matches. The government would also invest money
in the sport looking at our performance," Lombi told reporters
at the Major Dhyan Chand Stadium here.
"The main problem for us is that we don't play lots of
matches, but we now have great opportunity," he said.
With India awaiting them next, Lombi said his side won't
be under pressure when they take on the home team in the
packed stadium on Friday.
"It would be an exciting final game for us but we won't
be under pressure. It would be a great experience to play
under such a huge crowd. We are not used to such scenarios,"
he said.
PTI
First Published: Tuesday, March 09, 2010, 23:20