Expert's Column: Ekke Hoffmann on the CL Final

Just before the men's CL final, eurohandball.com talks to Ekke Hoffmann about the chances. The former coach of the German women national team (and also EHF lecturer) has a broad insight in German handball. Keeping some distance from men's club handball, he is able to give an unbiased judgement on the contenders and chances. The coach and expert was ready to share his thoughts with us.

eurohandball.com: What is the atmosphere like in Germany these days?

Ekke Hoffmann: German handball kept the fire alive ever since the World Championship won on home court. Last weekend the biggest clubs played the German Cup Final Four. Though it was a great event, the highlight of the season is just coming up: the Champions League Final.

The fans are also very excited about the match, there are great expectations.

eurohandball.com: What can you tell us about the current form of the two teams? Which do you feel to be stronger at the moment?

Ekke Hoffmann: There are injuries in both teams and these may be more serious on the Kiel side. Jeppesen, Ahlm, Szilágyi... The question is who would be able to play on Sunday. On the Flensburg side Von Beren and Lackovic are not sure to play. Lackovic, for example, was sitting only on the bench in the Cup Final Four. Of course, it may also the way to give him time to rest before the CL final. Of course, the German Cup was important, but the greatest event will definitely be the Champions League Final.

We must also not foeget that both teams have very strong rosters and one or two missing players will not decide the outcome.

eurohandball.com: Who may decide than?

Ekke Hoffmann: Goalkeepers. Omeyer in the Kiel goal and Beutler on the other side – but Holpert as well – are in great form. Omeyer was match winner in the Cup Final Four with seven saves on 7-metre throws.

eurohandball.com: It is not a secret that both teams put the emphasis on attacking...

Ekke Hoffmann: The attacking strategy is very similar in the case of both teams. A lot will depend on the defences.

I expect very fast games, lots of goals – the result will probably be over 30-30. The goalies will play crucial role.

eurohandball.com: More than 30 goals on both sides – but who will win?

Ekke Hoffmann: Only if I would know it... I expect very close games for certain. I'm quite sure that Flensburg will win in Flensburg, Kiel in Kiel and I also believe that the difference will be just one or two goals. But I have no idea who will lift the trophy at the end.

We will all know more about the chances after the first leg. Look for the analysis of the first game and predictions for the second with eurohandball.com's expert, Ekke Hoffmann.