Bhubaneswar (Odisha) [India], February 10 : The German Women's Hockey Team arrived at Biju Patnaik International Airport, Bhubaneswar on Monday ahead of their FIH Hockey Pro League 2024/25 fixtures in India, a release from Hockey India stated.
Led by Co-Captains Linnea Wiedemann and Sarah Strauss, Germany will take on Spain on 15 and 16 February before facing hosts India on 21 and 22 February.
Germany finished runners-up in last season's Pro League behind the Netherlands, but they have struggled for form this year. With only two draws from four matches, they currently sit seventh in the standings with three points.
Having conceded 13 goals already, they will be looking to tighten their defence ahead of the crucial upcoming games.
Speaking upon arrival, Co-Captain Wiedemann said that they are looking forward to playing at the Kalinga Stadium.
"The Kalinga Stadium always has an incredible atmosphere, and we are looking forward to playing here. We know facing India in front of their home crowd will be tough, but we will focus on our performance and give our best," Wiedemann was quoted in a release from Hockey India as saying.
Echoing her teammate's thoughts, Co-Captain Strauss added, "I feel great coming back to Bhubaneswar. We played here three years ago, and it was a wonderful experience. Some experienced players have returned from their post-Olympics break, giving us a fresh squad. We are focusing on team cohesion and looking to secure valuable points."
Earlier in the day, Both the Men's and Women's teams of Spain arrived together at the Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar, Odisha on Monday as they gear up for the FIH Hockey Pro League 2024/25 matches in India.