Final. There is no need for big words today. What the German national ice hockey team has achieved so far is already in the history books. Both experts and Fans agree: The title “Team of the Year” should be the one DEB-Be sure of your choice. Regardless of today's game against Russia (5 a.m., CET). German ice hockey is not only alive, it is more present than ever. “Millions are excited. Me too,” said Federal President Frank Walter Steinmeier when he spoke to the team on the phone yesterday.
National coach Marco Sturm doesn't need to use much in his speech today. Motivational speeches before a final aren't necessary. The team is focused, concentrated and has been in the tunnel since yesterday. "This is a special team, a special tournament and a very special situation," said Gerrit Fauser, adding: "Since the semi-final against Canada, life has changed for all of us."
The national team is already the world champion and record Olympic champion. Today she wants to gild herself. “People will still be talking about it in 50 years,” laughed Christian Ehrhoff. Regardless of the result. “We have made an entire nation proud and brought our sport into the public eye. What is happening here cannot be put into words,” said the German flag bearer.
Marco Sturm won't change anything about his lineup today. David Wolf is also there. It doesn't matter that one or the other actor is injured. Everyone wants to be there and is biting their teeth. “We are anything but the favorites. But that’s always been the case,” said Danny from the Birches with a mischievous smile. It's particularly important for him and his front men today, as a Russian offensive spectacle is to be expected. “We have to be good defensively,” said the goalkeeper.
The players didn't want to say many words before the match. Actions should follow. All of Germany is keeping its fingers crossed. The tension increases. Germany in the final of the Olympic Games against Russia. You have to read this fact twice. It's real for very few people. “That won’t happen until the next few days,” said captain Marcel Goc. In any case, the tournament ends with a medal. The greatest success in German ice hockey.