DEB team under pressure: 2: 6 defeat against Slovakia shocked fans!

DEB team under pressure: 2: 6 defeat against Slovakia shocked fans!

The German national ice hockey team suffered a bitter defeat at the Germany Cup in Landshut! With a shocking 2: 6 against Slovakia, the team not only left clear traces on the ice, but also in the self -image of the players. Striker Lean Bergmann was disappointed: "We weren't good enough, in all areas." Memories of the 2022 Olympic Games, where the team also lost to the Slovaks, became awake. National coach Harold Kreis confirmed: "You were a bit more aggressive than we do."

After a narrow 5: 6 against Denmark, it was clear before the last game against Austria that the goal of winning the title for the fourth time in a row was unreachable. The absence of NHL professionals and players of the Champions League teams revealed massive deficits on the defensive. Captain Patrick Hager criticized the way of playing: "Sometimes we play too carved." The evening against Slovakia started chaotic when the game had to be interrupted in the ice after only 44 seconds due to deep furrows. After an hour the ice masters were able to fix the problems, but the DEB team remained uncontested.

defensive weaknesses and learning processes

"We got a few unfavorable goals that we had to run after," said Kreis. In two games, the team conceded a total of twelve goals, which is not only due to bad luck. Hager emphasized the need to play more straight and to learn as a group. The experienced player who returned to the 2022 Olympics was a prudent leader. "The Gifthaferl still comes out sometimes. If it rumbles, I am there," said Hager and reflected on his development.

The team faces a challenge: the upcoming games have to be used to learn from the mistakes and strengthen the defensive. With a view to the future and the opportunity to compete again at Olympics in Milan in 2026 in Milan, the German team will be hoped for with a strong line -up. "The challenge is to find a slot in which you are indispensable," said Hager. Time is pushing and there is a lot to do!