New Delhi: France came to the Junior Hockey World Cup here hoping to finish among the top six, while defending champions Germany said retaining the title wasn't their “main aim“ at the event.
On Sunday , when the technically superior Germans take on the spirited French, it is expected to be an unsual yet entertaining final.
The two teams have nothing in common. The Germans are rock solid in defence, play with zen like discipline and are considered the most technically superior side in world hockey .
The French, in contrast, have never made it to the top, at either the junior or the senior level. Playing big tournaments is a novelty for them, expectations are low and they depend more on flair and the day's form than tactical or techincal aspects. In this tournament though, they have won many hearts with sheer spirit, their ability to bounce back from tough situations and above all playing exciting hockey . The youngsters are enjoying their new-found success, something they admit was not “expected” or “aimed for” before the start of the tournament.
In the past, France have participated in just three Junior World Cups, the last one being 12 years ago when India won the title at Hobart in 2001.
“We do not want to play Germany (in the final),” was coach Gael Foulard’s honest admission after the semi-final win on Friday. And their worry wasn’t without reason.
Germany’s remarkable 5-3 win over Holland in the other semifinal was proof of what the team are capable of.
“In France, we have a proverb. When Germany don’t play well, they reach the final, when they do, they win the final,” added Foulard. Fivetime junior champions Germany have been backed by strong shows from goalkeepers Victor Aly and Mark Appel, while striker Christopher Ruhr has been brilliant.
Skipper Mathias Muller is a vital component in the defence, making them an allround unit. Holland will clash with Malaysia in the bronze medal play-off.
