Olympic Champion and current World no.1 Argentina, which arrived for the prestigious Hockey World league (HWl) on Monday, said it would be vying to stay on top of the world ranking.
Despite a long journey and the tiredness, the team is extremely excited to be here in India. This is a big competition and it’s important to stay no.1 in the world which means to ensure best results in every match, stated 27-year-old Agustin Mazzilli.
Germany, which is grouped with India in Pool B, also arrived on Monday. The teams were welcomed by Odisha State officials accompanied by host nation Hockey India. The tournament is scheduled to begin on December 1 at the Kalinga Stadium here.
Argentina is grouped with Belgium, Netherlands and Spain in Pool A and will play their first match on December 2 against Belgium.
Meanwhile, Stefan Kermas, Head Coach of Germany, on arriving in Bhubaneswar said he would like his team to get used to the conditions.
Defending champions Australia, Olympic silver medallists Belgium and World no.7 England have already arrived in Bhubaneswar for the tournament.