The head coach of Avangard, **Guy Boucher**, addressed the players of the Omsk club in the locker room following their loss in the seventh match of the 2025 Gagarin Cup series against Lokomotiv (2-3 OT, 3-4).

“It hurts, it’s disappointing. But let’s look at the bigger picture: at one point, we were far from even making the playoffs. Our team fought hard and made its way back into contention for a playoff spot. You fought with everything you had. In the first round, we faced off against last season’s champions.

Then we came up against a team that has been building itself for four years. It was expected that they would be nearly impossible to beat. A top club that breezed through the entire regular season and the first round of the playoffs. And we found ourselves down 1-3 in the series. When things get tough, some give up, while others fight back. You fought with all your strength. We have come a long way: 2-3, 3-3. In the seventh match, we were down 0-2, and it seemed like we were already gone… Yet, we managed to rally. We were just a bit short.

Guys, I am incredibly impressed! I am proud of you! From the very first minute in this club, I could see your character. I didn’t expect this, as I didn’t know you well. I am impressed with every single person I’ve met here, with all the club staff. I wish I could have helped you a little more, but I will continue to work hard.

I can’t ask for more — you gave everything. Thank you so much. Thank you for everything,” Boucher’s words were reported by Avangard’s press service.