Germany coach Martina Voss-Decklenburg warned on Sunday that women’s soccer has never been more competitive as her team chases a third World Cup title.
The Germans are among the favorites in Australia and New Zealand and have serious pedigree having won the tournament in 2003 and 2007.
But they exited in the quarter-finals four years ago, and with women’s football at an all-time high, especially in Europe, Voss-Decklenburg is wary.
“All the games are close, the girls soccer teams are getting closer and closer,” the coach said.
“All the countries that come here are not only proud to be at the World Cup, but they absolutely deserve to be here playing and raising issues.
“Tomorrow we will have the same situation against Morocco.”
But Voss-Decklenburg, a former decorated international who will be in charge from 2019, welcomed the challenge, saying it was good for women’s football.
“We’re seeing it all over the world, everyone is still growing,” he added.
“Women’s football is getting tougher in an athletic sense, but as a game it’s growing and we’re proud to see that happen.
“We live it, we love it, and we’re up for the challenge.
“It’s a lot more competitive than when I played 20 years ago.”
The U.S. is chasing its third consecutive World Cup crown, but faces a stiff challenge from several European teams, including Germany.
Apart from Morocco, the first Arab nation to play in the Women’s World Cup, Germany face South Korea and Colombia in Group H.
Germany have a number of injuries ahead of the Morocco clash, with key players Marina Hegering and Lena Oberdorf doubtful.
Germany vs Morocco, Women’s World Cup Australia and New Zealand 2023 match
Date: Monday 24th July
Hours: 3:30 am (Colombian time)
Stadium: AAMI Park
Mode of spread: Gol Caracol and www.golcaracol.com
“Typical beer advocate. Future teen idol. Unapologetic tv practitioner. Music trailblazer.”