Frings' World Cup column: Climate doesn't play a role

Plenty of World Cup experience: Werder coach Torsten Frings took part in the 2002 and 2006 World Cups.
First Team
Thursday, 12.06.2014 / 11:59

I don't really like thinking back to the Selecao's last title - we really wanted to win the 2002 final in Yokohama - but for me Brazil is the favourite for the title this time as well...

It finally starts tonight at 10 p.m. - the World Cup in Brazil! For me, the hosts Brazil are the favourites. The positive atmosphere throughout the country could be a massive support.

I don't really like thinking back to the Selecao's last title - we really wanted to win the 2002 final in Yokohama - but for me Brazil is the favourite for the title this time as well. They have put together a great group and are playing in their own country. We saw first-hand in 2006 what kind of euphoria that can produce. The atmosphere in the country can be a decisive factor. But I don´t think the climate will play a major role. Of course it´s an issue that the media likes to talk about but it won´t make a difference in the end. While I have never been to Brazil myself, I have played in similar temperatures. The teams will get used to them and they are all in a great condition.

An unpleasant topic in the last few days has been the injury to Marco Reus. I feel really sorry for him - and for Germany. At the beginning, this kind of news is always a shock for the teammates. But they are all professionals and they know success does not rely on one individual player. The absence is a big loss, which will not be easy to overcome, but the team is really well stocked, especially on offense. I am not worried about that at all.

I am really looking forward to seeing how Erik Durm plays. In my position as assistant coach of Werder´s U23s, I always pay special attention to the young players. And I experienced a similar situation in 2002. I had already earned a few caps but I still was surprised to go into the tournament as a starter. I can well imagine what´s going on in his head - excitement, anxiousness. That´s how I feel now - I am looking forward to the 20th World Cup. So, a nice start to the World Cup.

Yours Torsten!

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