National soccer player Lena Oberdorf (21) trained again on the pitch and with the ball for the first time in preparation for the World Cup opener against Morocco (July 24).
The midfielder (thigh injury) completed running and passing exercises as well as slight increases during the public training session in Wyong on Sunday.
Defense chief Marina Hegering (bruised heel/both VfL Wolfsburg) continued to train off the field. Both players were injured during the dress rehearsal against Zambia (2:3).
Cold air, hot support
Before the public session of the Vice European Champion in the Central Coast Regional Sporting & Recreation Complex, the DFB team was welcomed with a traditional smoking ceremony to the sound of didgeridoos. Around 200 mostly young fans watched the 100-minute session and were rewarded with autographs in the uncomfortable temperatures.
“We generally feel very comfortable here. Then of course it’s something special to have such a welcome here. Now you’ve really arrived,” said Chantal Hagel.
Colombia’s toughness still an issue
On the fringes of training, the recent abandonment of the test match between Ireland and DFB opponents Klumbi was still being discussed. Tenor: You don’t want to be impressed by Colombia. “In situations like this we shouldn’t hold the ball for long, but play quickly with one or two contacts. That way we often avoid unnecessary duels. But of course we also have to fight back in direct duels,” said vice-captain Svenja Huth on Sunday at ” Picture”.
After their opening game against Morocco in Melbourne on July 24, Germany will face Colombia in the second group game on July 30 in Sydney. National coach Martina Voss-Tecklenburg had repeatedly warned against the physical playing style of the South American runners-up – most recently in the 2-3 defeat of the European runners-up against World Cup outsiders Zambia in Fürth.