Farewell spectacle for Grambusch - Women's team loses championship title
German Hockey Team Triumphs in European Championship After 12-Year Gap
The German hockey team has made history by winning the European Championship title after a 12-year gap. The prestigious victory, secured against the formidable Dutch team, marks the team's third consecutive major final win, including the World Cup victory and Olympic silver.
The team's success was built on a solid foundation, with key performances from several players. Mats Grambusch, a legendary figure in German hockey, played a pivotal role in the team's triumph. Grambusch, who recently retired from the sport, earned 217 caps and scored 112 goals for the national team. His achievements include being a World Champion in 2023, a two-time European Champion in 2013 and 2025, and an Olympic silver medalist at the 2024 Paris Games.
Grambusch's emotional farewell match, held in his hometown of Mönchengladbach, saw him capably leading the team to victory at the 2025 European Hockey Championship. This victory also marked Germany’s eighth European title and was a narrative "full circle" because he had been part of the team when they first won the European Championship in 2013 at his tournament debut.
The team's goalkeeper, Jean-Paul Danneberg, also shone brightly during the final. His outstanding performance helped the team hold a superior Dutch team to a 1:1 draw for 60 minutes. Danneberg's contributions were recognised by many, including sports director Martin Schultze, who stated that he is doing a fantastic job as coach.
The victory was not without its tense moments, particularly during the shootout. The German team is known for being the best shootout team in the world, but the title defender found the shootout nerve-wracking. Despite this, the team managed to emerge victorious, securing the European Championship title.
The German women's team also had a commendable performance in the European Championship. Despite losing to the dominant Dutch team 1:2, they fought hard and managed to secure a surprising silver medal. Henning, the coach of the women's team, expressed his desire for an Olympic gold medal and his contract with the team will extend until 2028.
With the retirement of key players such as Mats Grambusch and Lukas Windfeder, there is an opportunity for younger players to step up. Jean-Paul Danneberg, the youngest player on the team, expressed his joy and appreciation for the team, calling it the best he's ever played in.
Head coach Janneke Schopman expressed pride in the performance of the German women's team in the European Championship. The team's success in the tournament sets a positive tone for the future, as they look forward to competing in the European Championship, World Championship, and Olympics in Los Angeles.
[1] German Hockey Team Wins European Championship After 12-Year Gap
[2] Mats Grambusch Leads Germany to European Hockey Championship Victory
[3] Germany Wins World Cup and Olympic Silver in Field Hockey
[4] Jean-Paul Danneberg's Outstanding Performance in European Championship Final
[5] Selin Oruz Retires from National Team After European Championship
[1] The German hockey team triumphed in the European Championship, securing the title after a 12-year gap and making history.
[2] Mats Grambusch, a legend in German hockey, led the team to victory in the European Hockey Championship before retiring, earning numerous accolades throughout his career, including being a World Champion, a two-time European Champion, and an Olympic silver medalist.
