Following some intense weeks of pre-season, the Green-Whites are overjoyed that the competitive matches are starting back up again. “We are ready for the challenge”, explained Ole Werner. “One or two players have had to sit out of training during pre-season, and this forced us to make certain changes and try out new tactics. I am ultimately very pleased with the physical condition of the team, and with the intensity and the quality they are showing in training.”
Despite the Green-Whites being the favourites to win against Viktoria Köln, the team are entering the match fully focused and with a strong desire to win. “This won’t be the first DFB-Pokal first-round tie for any of us – we know what we’re in for”, explained the 35-year-old. “We are up against a strong team in the third division, who have a clear way of playing and they always have a trick up their sleeves from set pieces. We are prepared for this, and it’s down to us to bring our quality onto the field.”
After being knocked out in the second round following a penalty shootout in Paderborn last season, Werder are keen to give the cup their best effort this year. “In the Pokal, it’s logical to only focus on the round that you’re currently in”, said Werner. “You have to take each round as it comes, and our attention now is purely on Viktoria Köln. Although you obviously want to progress as far into the competition as possible, each game in the Pokal is its own individual challenge.”
The head coach revealed that this is not only a necessary mindset to have for the DFB-Pokal, but also for setting targets within the Bundesliga season.
