I consider the Germans are in form. They seemed to have come out of the Manchester European Games disaster, completely. They are the only European outfit here not affected by the heat factor. It is to the Germany’s credit that in all the four games they played so far, they have constantly applied pressure on the rivals though they could have easily slipped into a defensive mode they are capable of, and start protecting their lead. This positive approach is paying them dividends.

Pakistan improved, but not to the extent they are capable of. If they could string more number of passes between them, rather than relying on individual thrusts, which I hope they would do hereafter, their scales will soar. But much would depend on whether they want to shake off from their traditional mindset.

Korea capitalized the exhaustion factor that has somehow set in with the Dutch team. This was best exemplified the manner the Dutch conceded goals, especially the last one. As the Koreans were making inroads, the Dutch team just stood and watched! Whenever a team runs out of energy, a strategic diversion is needed. Like for an instance, the Dutch could have simply kept the possession, rotate the ball, and try to control the pace of the game, as they were no more in a position to dictate terms. But they could not.

The Dutch’s forwardline are increasingly getting congested in and around the circle, instead of spreading on to the flanks. This makes it difficult for the midfield to manoevure further. The congested upfront limited choices, especially for the pivots to direct their passes upfront. Now in such a situation, they are confined to direct their passes only to the congested area which do not help matter improve any further. As a result, the team found problem in holding the ball for longer period, which could have easily averted the disaster of this magnitude. In modern hockey, such things always occur and one need not count the Dutch as the lost case either.

Koreans are able to adopt to the emerging situation. This is showing. Their speed and fitness are making much of a difference between them and the others. They are ones who are converting penalty corners. They have good number of variations in their stock. Of course, this is their traditional strength. Korea has finished all the three formidable Europeans and the Aussies. Indeed, they got the rough end of the match schedule yet as any mature team would, it made most of it.

Malaysia played within themselves and have been able to improve. They troubled higher rated teams like The Netherlands and Australia. They will do better if they resort to combined play and part the ball quicker.

With so much interesting results having come up already, more enlightening and entertaining days lie ahead for us all to savour.