Honduras national team manager Jorge Luis Pinto admitted that he will be short of a few players at the upcoming Rio Olympics 2016 due to injuries, but he remains confident that the replacements will be able to make a major impact.
The upcoming Rio Olympics 2016 is a major deal for Honduras especially since it looks like they will miss out on World Cup qualification for the 2018 edition. The recent 2-0 win over El Salvador has lifted the team into the second spot of their group, but there is no place for comfort just yet.
Mexico continue to lead the table with four consecutive victories. Canada are level on points with Honduras. Pinto says that the injury to Andy Najar, who plays for European outfit Anderlecht, is a major loss, but he is hopeful that other players can step up to the plate. Roger Espinoza is a strong contender and Pinto has recalled a similar situation for the previous Olympics tournament in London 2012. Back then, Honduras performed well in the Olympics despite having several key players missing across the squad. The manager is the opinion that the team needs experience in areas like goalkeeper, defender, and a creative midfielder.
They are planning to call up over age players only for this position. Only three players over the age of 23 can be included in the Olympic squad.”I was watching the game Maynor Figueroa where he had an own goal. Emilio (Izaguirre) did not come out or on the bench and I worry about that. I just saw Anthony (Lozano). I’m going to see Roger (Espinoza) at noon.Yesterday I spoke with Eddie Hernandez to inquire what time played and told me that at 3:00 am, when Honduras. We are seeing, and we are seeing other players. Wednesday will go to watch the game to San Pedro Sula Marathon-Real Sociedad,” said Pinto.