 | CZECH REP 2-1 LATVIA |
Latvia coach Aleksandrs Starkovs took heart from his team's defeat by the Czech Repbulic in their debut in a major championship. Late goals from Milan Baros and Marek Heinz prevented a major shock after Maris Verpakovskis fired Latvia ahead.
Starkovs said: "The match showed we can compete with top sides.
"I'm sure we can prove that again in four days time against the Germans," added Starkovs as he looked forward to Latvia's next tough challenge.
The Latvia coach said: "It was a nervous day for us as it was our first match at such a high level.
"We were afraid that we would be outclassed, but we can be satisfied with our football.
"Throughout the game the Czechs showed that technically they are better than us, but we can be proud of our performance.
"Today's game gave us plenty of confidence."
MMIX
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We knew there was a second half to play so there was no panic 
