New Delhi: Last edition's runners-up, Netherlands definitely start as favourites against India in their opening match of the Hockey Junior World Cup and coach Sjoerd Marijne today his wards are confident of starting their campaign on a winning note in the December 6-15 event.
"The team is very tough and stable and we are geared up for the challenge. All the teams are strong and anyone can win a match on the given day. But the boys are confident about their first match against India and we aim to start this tour with a win," Marijne said after Netherlands second practice session at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium.
Marijne's views were backed by Netherlands team manager and Olympian Floris Evers.
"I am waiting to see my friends from Ranchi Rhinos. Here I am as a team manager and my job is to share my experiences and guide them to give their best game during the tournament," said Evers who played for champions Ranchi Rhinos in the inaugural Hockey India League.
"The players in this team have the speed and are good with technical aspect of the game and we are confident of our opening match (against India)," he said.
Evers also spoke highly about India captain Manpreet Singh and Mandeep Singh, who were his teammates in Ranchi Rhinos.
"They are my friends and I am waiting to meet them here. I am hoping that Mandeep plays as well as he did in the HIL last year.
"For me the toughest players in the Indian side are these two and I hope we see Indian and Netherlands in the final. The young Indian side is a tough team," he said.
