Portugal’s squad list: «We go like world champions»
Renato Garrido, Portuguese roller hockey coach, guarantees that the national team intends to revalidate the world title won two years ago in Barcelona. The World Championship will be held in San Juan, Argentina, from November 6 to 13.
“We go like world champions. However Portugal will always be a candidate in any competition it participates. Whether European or popular. We know we’re going to play, San Juan, you breathe hockey, and that’s why Argentina is a big favourite. We, among other teams, are strong candidates and we will fight to keep the title as we are in Barcelona. We will do everything to represent Portugal in the best way and dignify Portuguese hockey », he said.
Asked about the quality of the selections presented, Renato Garrido four in particular, in addition to Portugal: «France appears with a very strong selection, with almost all players playing in Portugal and Spain. Italy is always a selection to keep in mind. Spain is a candidate, but Argentina, due to the environment in its favor, will be the favourite».
From the pre-call, consisting of 13 elements, Gonçalo Pinto (Benfica), Xanodo (Valongo) and Álvaro Morais (OC Barcelos) were not selected. Regarding the European championship, which took place last year in Paredes, Jorge Silva (Oliveirense) left the ‘chosen’ having entered the Sporting forward João Souto in his place.
Invited list:
– FC Porto: Telmo Pinto, Rafa and Gonçalo Alves;
– Sporting: Ângelo Girão (GR), Henrique Magalhães and João Souto;
– Benfica: Pedro Henriques (GR) and Diogo Rafael;
– Barcelona: Hélder Nunes and João Rodrigues.