Germany and the Netherlands in a battle of titans

NEW DELHI: Defending champions Germany face a stern test when they take on rampaging Netherlands in a mouthwatering Pool A clash in the Hero Honda hockey World Cup on Sunday.

Germany, gunning for a hat-trick of titles after their triumphs in 2002 and 2006, are yet to reach their peak form though they had maintained a clean slate in the three matches they had played so far.

Coming in this tournament with nine of their Beijing Olympics gold-winning squad, Germany began their campaign with a 2-2 draw against South Korea before whipping Canada 6-0 in their second match.

But Maximillian Muller-led young side were lucky to have scraped past a plucky Argentina, the lowest ranked side in the 12-team tournament, 4-3 in a thrilling match on Friday.

On the other hand, the Netherlands are in a rampaging form having beaten Argentina, New Zealand and Canada though they will have their first real challenge on Sunday.

Their defence has been compact with veteran goalkeeper Guus Vogel in good touch, conceding just one goal so far.

Germany will have to find some way to stop star drag flicker Taeke Taekema from scoring. The Dutch penalty corner specialist has scored six goals to lead the scorers’ chart.