The Algarve Cup is currently under way and Anja Mittag, who was has won over 100 caps for Germany, has started both games. Ahead of today’s final group match against Brazil (18:30 CET) she spoke to DFB.de about the tournament, Marta and her role in the team.
DFB.de: Lena Goeßling turned 29 on Sunday. Did the team get her anything nice?
Anja Mittag: We gave her a small purse, a practical one. Lena has used a big one recently, but the one we get her will fit in her pocket.
DFB.de: Did she like it?
Mittag: She said she did. (laughs)
DFB.de: The first game of the tournament saw you lose 4-2 to Sweden. Was that especially annoying for you, as that is where you ply your trade?
Mittag: All defeats are annoying. We were 2-0 up and lost and the fact that Sweden were the opponents makes it more annoying. I initially tried to avoid the Swedish newspapers but I had to have a look…
DFB.de: What were the headlines?
The Algarve Cup is currently under way and Anja Mittag, who was has won over 100 caps for Germany, has started both games. Ahead of today’s final group match against Brazil (18:30 CET) she spoke to DFB.de about the tournament, Marta and her role in the team.
DFB.de: Lena Goeßling turned 29 on Sunday. Did the team get her anything nice?
Anja Mittag: We gave her a small purse, a practical one. Lena has used a big one recently, but the one we get her will fit in her pocket.
DFB.de: Did she like it?
Mittag: She said she did. (laughs)
DFB.de: The first game of the tournament saw you lose 4-2 to Sweden. Was that especially annoying for you, as that is where you ply your trade?
Mittag: All defeats are annoying. We were 2-0 up and lost and the fact that Sweden were the opponents makes it more annoying. I initially tried to avoid the Swedish newspapers but I had to have a look…
DFB.de: What were the headlines?
Mittag: “Victory over the European Champions,” “Fightback against Germany” and things like that. It was a big deal in Sweden as they hadn’t beaten us for a while. They couldn’t consolidate their victory against us as they lost to Brazil in the second match, which will have annoyed them.
DFB.de: The game against China went well…
Mittag: That’s true, although you can’t compare the sides. It’s a good sign when you can make eight changes to the side and still put in a performance like we did.
DFB.de: You now face Brazil. What sort of game are you expecting?
Mittag: They’re good on the ball and their defence has improved. It’s not going to be easy. We need to be aggressive, strong, quick and clinical. Brazil have some great players including Marta, who can change games in the blink of an eye.
DFB.de: You play alongside Marta for FC Rosengard. How would you describe her? Mittag: Marta is a fantastic player and works hard for the team. She doesn’t ask for special treatment – she doesn’t act like a superstar. It’s great to play alongside her.
DFB.de: Is it possible to keep her quiet?
Mittag: You have to be careful – if she has space, she’s a threat.
DFB.de: You face Brazil in Fürth next month…
Mittag: You can never play the best sides too often. We’re looking forward to playing world class opposition in front of our own supporters.
DFB.de: Germany haven’t played Brazil for a while.
Mittag: Correct, we last faced them in 2009 in Frankfurt.
DFB.de: And who scored for Germany?
Mittag: I did! It was in front of 45,000 spectators. The game ended 1-1.
DFB.de: How would you compare today’s Anja Mittag with the one from a few years ago?
Mittag: I’ve developed for sure – I’m more mature and have more self confidence.
DFB.de: What’s your current role in the team?
Mittag: I’m now 30 so can’t be viewed as a hot prospect! Alongside the other experienced players, I aim to pass on my knowledge to the youngsters.
