DFB women put hope: decision-making game against Sambia is pending

DFB women put hope: decision-making game against Sambia is pending

Marseille (dpa)-In the middle of the challenges at the Olympic Games, the DFB women re-evaluated their chances after a clear defeat against the USA in the Stade Vélodrome. Coach Horst Hrubesch and his players are faced with a decisive game against Sambia and have to get at least one point to reach the quarter -finals.

a turning point on the way to the medal

After the 1: 4 against the USA, a match that was described as an educational experience, Hrubesch explains: "It's not over yet - right?" His words reflect an unbroken fighting spirit, even if there is only theoretical hope of the group victory. Now it is important to concentrate on the next game and to secure the necessary points.

memory of sambia

sambia, the last preliminary round opponent, causes mixed memories. In a test game before the 2023 World Cup, the German selection lost 2: 3, and Sambia's performance is also unpredictable, as its 5: 6 defeat against Australia shows, even though they led 5: 2 in the meantime. Together with the strikers Barbra Banda and Racheal Kundananji, who can be dangerous, it is clear indications that the DFB women must be warned.

The way to the Olympic village

A success in the coming game could not only mean moving into the quarter -finals for the German players, but also the longed -for opportunity to live in the Olympic village and to maintain options on the medal. A look at the possible next opponents: As a group second, a duel with Colombia, France or Canada would be coming up. However, if the HRUBST team emerges as third from the group phase, world champion Spain could be the next rival.

captains take responsibility

Captain Alexandra Popp is optimistic about the mood in the team and emphasizes: "We got you on the lid - nothing more happened". However, her personal fitness level is an issue because she has to struggle with a "cartilage knee", which is due to an earlier injury. However, she remains confident: "We will get it back, I am in good spirits."

The importance of team spirit

The challenges that the DFB women are facing are not only a sporty nature. They also mark an opportunity for the team to prove themselves as a unit and to learn from failures. Hrubesch encourages his players to remember the beginning of the tournament trip when a 3-0 against Australia ensured the necessary self -confidence.

The momentum from the previous games could be crucial for the next challenges, especially against Zambia. The hope remains that the team will find themselves in the endgame in the longing city of Paris, which is within reach for the DFB women-if they master the upcoming tasks with flying colors.

- Nag