Czech Republic women’s hockey team reached Ranchi, aiming to make it to the Olympics for the first time

Ranchi (Uttam Hindu News): The Czech Republic women’s hockey team arrived in Ranchi on Saturday with enthusiasm and determination as they aim to secure their first Olympic berth by qualifying for the Paris Olympics 2024. The team, which is currently ranked 25th globally, is showing enthusiasm and readiness as it prepares to showcase its skills at the FIH Hockey Olympic Qualifiers Ranchi 2024.

Under the leadership of Katarina Lasina and the able guidance of head coach Gareth Grundy, the Czech Republic team is ready for the challenge ahead.

The Czech Republic find themselves in Pool A, where they will begin their quest against former Asian Games champions Japan in their opening game on January 13. Next, they are set to face Chile in their second match of the tournament on January 14. Their final pool match is scheduled for January 16 against Olympic silver medalists Germany.

Other teams in the field include hosts India, New Zealand, Italy and the United States in Pool B. The top 3 teams of the tournament will qualify for the Paris Olympic Games 2024.

Arriving in Ranchi amid a warm and joyous welcome, the team expressed their eagerness to compete at the highest level and make their mark in this prestigious tournament. The upcoming matches against formidable opponents are a testament to their determination and hunger for success.

Talking about the preparations and strategies for the tournament, captain Katrina Lasina said, “Our training program was focused on enhancing our physical ability, which is an important aspect of our game. Additionally, we have been engaged in valuable preparation games against France, Ukraine and the Netherlands U21 team. With a lot of young talent in the team, our strategy revolves around a dynamic, physical style of play combined with top level hockey to showcase our team’s strength and skill on the field. We are here to fight and compete and we are confident that we can make it to the Paris Olympics.”

Speaking further on the team’s crucial clash against high-ranked Germany, Lassina said, “We are ready to give our best performance against Germany. In the game of hockey, anything can come up and we are ready to take advantage of every opportunity.”