With FIH World league semi-final just around the corner, Indian women’s chief coach Mathias Ahrens expressed his faith and confidence in the team and said that his team has what it takes to beat the best. "I am very confident of this team and our biggest challenge will be game against Belgium. It will be our first clash with them during the league. But I think we have a good chance of beating them."
During a media interaction on Monday, Ahrens said that the team’s biggest strength is its defence. Asked what will be the focus for upcoming tournament, he replied, "Focus will be on penalty-corners. They play some amazing hockey and it is good to see them working so hard. This tournament comes at the right time for the players, the team is ready, and they have the determination to go all the way through. What impresses me about this team is their keenness to learn and apply."
India (FIH ranking 13) is placed in a tough group with Australia (2), New Zealand (4) and hosts Belgium (12). The women's hockey team defeated Poland 3-1 in the final to emerge HWl Round 2 champions at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium on March 16 this year. With that win, India qualified for the HWl Round 3. If they finish within the top six in Round 3, they would qualify for the Rio Olympic Games in 2016.
Speaking on the chances to make it to Rio Olympics next year, coach said "The team is up for the challenge and we can qualify. We will go to the tournament next month with all intent to win and seal the berth for Rio Oly." The team will leave for Belgium on 10th June and play their first game against hosts Belgium on June 20th.