The German handball players start the home World Cup against Iceland. A “small” opponent, but one that could become a stumbling block.
Beaming faces, an exuberant atmosphere – at the final training of the German handball players there was anticipation for the upcoming opening game (Wednesday, November 26th, 6 p.m.) of the home World Cup.
“I see a team that is very relaxed”said national coach Markus Gaugisch after training, “They have a good mix of coolness and fun factor, but also goal-oriented work.”
Iceland should not be underestimated
The DHB team’s first task: Iceland. On paper, the Northern Europeans are inferior to the German team. The World Cup in Germany and the Netherlands is only the third World Cup for the Icelanders. When they last took part two years ago, they finished the tournament in 25th place.
Nevertheless, the national coach warns against coach Arnar Petursson’s team: “This is a difficult game”says Gaugisch, “It’s a team that has a lot of heart, that isn’t afraid, even when they’re physically inferior.”
Three Bundesliga players
Backcourt player Thea Sturludottir is particularly dangerous in the Icelandic squad, while Elin Thorkelsdottir is considered one of the most experienced players and playmakers. Hafdis Renotudottir can also become an important factor.
Three Icelandic national players are active in Germany. Andrea Jacobsen, Diana Magnusdottir and Elin Magnusdottir play for HSG Blomberg Lippe and know the German national players Nike Kühne and Alexia Hauf from the club.
DHB team has to counter
At the European Championships last year, they proved that the Icelandic women can be dangerous even against top teams when they narrowly lost to the Dutch in the opening game. “Iceland is characterized by this willingness to fight and we have to counter this so that we have the basic prerequisite for our breadth in the squad to prevail.”the national coach explained the route for the game.
Should things get tight, Gaugisch hopes for the hall’s support: “I think the home advantage is the few percentage points that can help in crunch time.” Gaugisch himself made sure that the hall was full. “I’ve already purchased one or two tickets. Family and friends are there.”
Gaugisch himself comes from the region and has roots here. “The handball family in Stuttgart knows each other and I’m sure I’ll see a lot of familiar faces and emotions will run high towards the field.”
“High-end performance”
The goal for the start of the World Cup is clear: a win against Iceland is necessary. DHB President Andreas Michelmann has announced the goal of the tournament is the semi-finals. The national coach is more reserved when it comes to specific placements.
However, he is optimistic about: “The gut feeling is great. We’ve worked well. We’re trying to deliver our high-end performance. That’s good for us if we have that as our goal. We’ll see what comes of it.”