Guatemala
El Salvador
Following the disappointing exit from the DFB-Pokal, in which, despite being the favourites, Werder fell short, it was naturally a priority to conduct a detailed match analysis of the game last week. Werner blames the first ten minutes in particular for the defeat, claiming that his team were totally out of the game. “After this, we evaluated moments where things were going well, and moments where we fell short and should improve upon.”
The team made the decision to not dwell too much on the first game of the season so that they could direct their focus onto the upcoming Bundesliga fixture. “It was only the first game of the season – no one should be losing sleep over it. We’re only just getting started”, reported Werner. Mental preparation for Friday’s match was just as important as the hard work on the training pitch following the difficult defeat. “It’s important that you believe in your strengths as a team.” This will be pivotal in helping Werder win in their first league game of the season.
“We have to be relentless”
Werner isn’t concerned that his team will take on the title holders in their first match of the Bundesliga. It’s “neither an advantage nor a disadvantage” to face Bayern first out of all the teams. The head coach is, however, fully aware of the strengths of the opposition. “It’s thetoughest possible game we could have, but we have to rise to the challenge.” The 34-year-old has devised a clear match plan: “We are clearly the underdogs, so have to work hard out of possession, stay compact and be relentless, and defend well. It’s vital that we take the chances we get and keep the opposition busy.” The success of the match plan will only become apparent after the final whistle is blown on Friday evening. Ole Werner is feeling more anticipation than excitement: “It will be a special game. The first Bundesliga match always has a certain charm.”
The team made the decision to not dwell too much on the first game of the season so that they could direct their focus onto the upcoming Bundesliga fixture. “It was only the first game of the season – no one should be losing sleep over it. We’re only just getting started”, reported Werner. Mental preparation for Friday’s match was just as important as the hard work on the training pitch following the difficult defeat. “It’s important that you believe in your strengths as a team.” This will be pivotal in helping Werder win in their first league game of the season.
