In terms of results, the national team did not reach its goals, national team coach Daniela Diaz stated. However, she also emphasized that “we made another step forward when it comes to looking at potential national team player.” They know where they are at and feel like they are on the right track. “We know what we have to improve.”
This result in Ostrava clearly underlines that the Swiss women’s national team is only a force to be reckoned with on the international level when they can count on their best player. Due to various reasons, this is often not possible during the season (players playing abroad, education/professional reasons, injuries, etc.) Therefore, Daniela Diaz’ plan of building a deeper roster is the right choice. Some players capitalized on this opportunity in Ostrava: 16-year-old Rahel Enzler, a U18 national team player, had an assist for six out of seven goals. Five times, she set up Alina Müller.
After a short Christmas break, the journey continues for the national team. At the beginning of January, they will participate in an eight-nation tournament. Diaz then expects to have the best possible team with all players who work abroad. The Swiss are in Group B, playing in Telfs (Austria), and will face Finland, Russia, and once again Austria. In the placement round, it would be possible that the Swiss face Czechia, one of their opponents in Arosa.The Czechs play in Group A in Füssen (Germany) and will face Germany, Sweden, and Canada (U22).
Last Update: 19 December 2016, 08:47 AM | bsc
