The German volleyball players conceded their first defeat in the third game at their home European Championship and missed out on qualifying for the round of 16.
On Monday (21.08.23) in front of 2250 spectators in Düsseldorf, the team of national coach Vital Heynen lost 1:3 (25:13, 16:25, 18:25, 18:25) to the previously unbeaten Swedes. Nevertheless, on Tuesday against the Czech Republic (8 p.m.) the next chance for a ticket for the knockout round is already available.
“We know what we can do. We have to get that back into our heads quickly”said Captain Lena Stigrot, “We’re still a young team to some extent. We’ll do better on Tuesday.”
No changes
With regard to a possible Olympic qualification next year, however, Germany wanted to avoid slipping up against supposed underdogs at all costs. Heynen didn’t change his starting six from the 3-1 win over Azerbaijan – and his faith was rewarded. The “butterflies” around captain Lena Stigrot started furiously and quickly gained a clear lead. Even after the strong start, Germany remained highly concentrated, without much Swedish resistance, the first set went to the co-hosts with 25:13.
In the second round, a completely different picture presented itself – but this was mainly due to the opponent. Led by point collector Isabelle Haak, the Swedes fought their way back into the game with great force, resulting in a 16:25 from a German perspective. The third set of a now highly emotional game also went to Sweden with 18:25. With their backs to the wall, the Germans braced themselves against the impending defeat, with every point won, a cheer went through the Castello. But the momentum was now entirely on the Swedish side.
Still in second place
After the defeat, the selection of the German Volleyball Association (DVV) is still in second place in Group C behind Turkey with six points, the top four reach the next round. The Turks had previously celebrated their third success, but lost the first set in a 3-1 win (25:23, 25:20, 20:25, 25:17) against the Czech Republic.