The Indian men’s hockey team will play a two-match bilateral series with Germany at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium on October 23 and 24, Hockey India announced on Tuesday. India last faced Germany in the semi-finals of the Paris Olympics where the European giants won 3-2.
India won the bronze medal at the Olympics by defeating Spain in the third place play-off. Hockey India President Dilip Tirkey said, “This bilateral series against Germany will be a remarkable display of world-class hockey. Both India and Germany have a rich history in the sport and this series will give fans an opportunity to witness a tough competition between two of the strongest teams in the world.”
The former Indian captain said, “We are honoured to host this series. This will not only promote the spirit of hockey but will also strengthen the relationship between the two countries.” Hockey India Secretary General Bhola Nath Singh said, “India-Germany hockey rivalry has always been an exciting contest. Our players are looking forward to competing against such a good team and I believe this series will give both teams an opportunity to improve their skills and strategies ahead of future international tournaments.”
German Hockey Federation President Henning Fastrich said the national team is up for the challenge. “India has always been a special place for hockey and our team is thrilled to play in front of enthusiastic Indian fans. This series is a great opportunity to strengthen sporting ties between Germany and India while also providing a competitive platform for both teams to prepare for upcoming global competitions,” he said. Fastrich added, “We are looking forward to the challenge and the experience of playing at the historic Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium.
