After overcoming England in their last-four tie, German coach Markus Weise said his team played as a unit.

By Adarsh Vinay

Germany coach Markus Weise was pleased after his team saw off England 4-1 in the hockey World Cup semi-final to enter the decider on Saturday. He praised his team for emerging triumphant in what he thought was a close game.

"It was a tight game. The scoreboard does not reflect how close the match really was. It was very tough but we played well, everyone contributed. I am happy with the entire team. We played as a unit," he said.

Martin Haner, who converted a penalty corner in the match, echoed his coach's thoughts. "We played as a unit. We defended with eleven players and were clinical in our finishing as well," the 21-year-old said.

Germany will face either Holland or Australia in the final but Wesie is not concerned about who they will be up against.

"To be world champions you have to beat the best teams in the world. So it does not matter who the opponents are. I don't really care," he said.

The Germans have won the last two World Cups and Weise said it is their mental strength that sets them apart.

"It's not all about tactics. At this level, mental strength also matters. Early goals, tight defending, these little things can make a difference."

If the holders go on to win the final, it will be a record third consecutive title. But Weise played down the matter. "Those are just statistics. It does not motivate me at all. It does not count for anything," he concluded.