In a thrilling championship duel with Croatia the German Handball team is fighting in the semi-finals of the world Championships at home. Circle runner Jannik Kohlbacher, speaks in a DW Interview about the home-field advantage and the hard-earned happiness.
DW: Jannik Kohlbacher, how it feels, at the world Cup in their own country in the semis?
Jannik Kohlbacher: Yes, I think the first goal is now achieved. We want to take the back wind, and we are now the first place in this group. The feeling is indescribable to stand in the world Championships at home in the semi-finals and also in advance. We have had the cards in Hand and had at the end maybe just a little bit of luck, which we lacked against France and Russia. The happiness must be earned, and that’s what we did today.
You were lucky, but also a very good defense.
Yes, I would say so.
Why is it that it runs against offensive really around?
I think we always come to good throw opportunities. But it is clear that with our backcourt shooters from distance time to time one or the other Ball. In the game against Brazil Steffen Weinhold has carved the things in, against Croatia, Fabian has taken over the Recovery. That it’s offensively bad, I would not say that. We have a series of good defensive work against us. And score a goal more than the opponent, then Yes.
What effect does the mood of the Home crowd on your Team?
As the last gate dropped, I had the feeling the roof flies off. I think, since it held no more on the Seats. This atmosphere makes a big difference. We have reached a milestone and now it continues.
Your team-mate Martin Strobel was injured in the game against Croatia is evil and is out for the Rest of the world Cup. How have you seen the scene?
He is weggeknickt with the knee. I don’t know currently how to do it for him. We are all behind him and hope we hear something Positive from him. The Team has handled this well on the field, but for now we will keep our fingers crossed.
Can increase the German team?
Now Spain is waiting for us, and we want to get the group victory. What comes after that, we will see then.
Jannik Kohlbacher, 23, is a circle runner, and since 2015 member of the German national Handball team. Since last year, the brawny 1,93 Meter-Hühne (113 kg competition weight) plays for Rhein-Neckar-Löwen and among carriers the power. At the currently ongoing world Cup in Germany and Denmark, he has a Chance at the title.
The Interview was conducted by Joscha Weber.