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Leitzig & Linder: "Gaining Experiences"
Hello you two! You just got back from the last preparation course with the U20s yesterday. How did the final sessions go?
Sarai Linder: "In training, we concentrated on reinforcing everything that we had prepared up until now. That included tactical elements, 1 on 1's and a lot of shooting at goal so that, during the tournament, we can focus on preparing specifically for different opponents."
Janina Leitzig: "The friendly match on Tuesday also went well. The win against the Netherlands allowed us to secure a place at the World Cup. You could notice that we felt comfortable with our system."
Sarai, in the game against the Netherlands, you were selected to play in the centre-back position...
Linder: "Yes, I jumped in for Sophia Kleinherne, who had taken a knock. It was enjoyable to play the game in a new position, despite that fact that I see myself more as a full back. At the end of the day, it's just nice to be able to help the team, whether I play centrally or on the wings."
On 2 August, the new World Cup adventure begins. What are you most excited about?
Leitzig: "I'm most looking forward to the atmosphere. The U20 World Cup is the biggest tournament in youth football, the interest from the public is also greater than in previous years. That was noticeable in the preparation game on Tuesday."
Linder: "I'm most excited about the first game and the feeling of when it finally starts. We're already familiar with the tournament's processes, which helps keeps the nerves at bay. But the excitement is huge!"
In the group stage, you are set to play Nigeria, China and Haiti. How do you assess your opponents?
Linder: "They are a tough opponent to evaluate and that is why we are not taking anything for granted."
Leitzig: "We have already played against Haiti in the Four Nations Tournament. We won the tie 4-1, but it will be a completely different kind of game at the World Cup."
What objectives have you set yourselves for the upcoming weeks?
Linder: "I want to bring my performance to the table, to help the team. Apart from that, this tournament is a great experience and you have to gain as many experiences as possible. I would love to go home with a medal, but if not, then I'd love to top the group."
Leitzig: "I would also love to take away as much as possible from the next few weeks and I hope to be able to get a bit of game time under my belt."
Before going to the World Cup, you will have a few days off, will you use that time for a short holiday?
Leitzig: "The last few days before the World Cup, I will spend with my family. It is a good opportunity to gather my thoughts a bit, before we go to France."
Linder: "We have received some homework from the German Football Federation, so I'll be doing that and keeping myself fit. I'll also be taking advantage of the peace and quiet at home."
