TAMMERFORS. Latvian supporters made the packed square boil with celebration.
Latvia won a historic bronze medal at the World Cup after defeating the United States 4-3 after extra time.
– It was the most important match for us, we have never played at a higher level, says the captain of the Latvian national team, Harij Vitulins.
Chaos and hysteria reigned in the stands as Latvians made the pilgrimage to the match against the USA.
Prior to this tournament, Latvia had never gone beyond the quarter-finals.
Christian Robbins became a great national hero by making it 3-3 at the end of the game and 4-1 after 1.22 of overtime.
The decision was a shot straight over the crossbar and the arena exploded.
“Best fans in the tournament”
Roberts Bokarts gave Latvia the lead with a resolute finish in the top net.
– You just have to absorb the cool vibe. He is completely insane and what an idiot he is. It feels like we are in Riga. They are the best fans in the tournament and have great support. Latvians play with heart and passion, says Jonas Andersson, SVT expert, you just have to enjoy the team spirit.
Rocco Grimaldi only managed to equalize 1.56 later when he managed a pinch-hit penalty.
Latvia managed to take the lead again when defender Janis Jacques followed them up and pushed the ball into the chair in front of the goal.
The USA came back again when Rocco Grimaldi hit the same cross from second.
The 30-year-old AHL forward is the WC’s leading scorer with seven goals and seven assists in ten games.
Drama in the third period
It was Matt Coronato of the Colorado Flames who fought back to 3-2 on rebounds.
Christian Robbins put Latvia back in the game when he scored to make it 3-3.
The 25-year-old champion plays every day in the AHL and grew up in Västerås from the age of 16.
Just like facing Tre Kronor, Latvia managed to keep the opponent out.
The frustrated United States had to fight for every millimeter against the big and heavy Latvians.
Latvia squandered chances going forward and played sacrificially in all situations.
Enchanted throughout the playoffs
Thanks to their play and supporters, they have won the hearts of the hockey world these weeks.
They defeated Tre Kronor in the quarterfinals, pressed Canada into the semifinals and beat the United States in the bronze medal match.
Prior to that, they had come close to missing the quarter-final against group winners Switzerland before tying the game with 5.04 remaining.
Latvia claimed the historic World Cup bronze with their first medal and the fans won the gold.
The World Cup Final between Canada and Germany received a tip-off at 19:20 Swedish time.
The text has been updated.
