New Delhi, Dec 5 (IANS)

Germany's coach Andre Henning said Thursday that the European champions should not be taken lightly at the Junior Hockey World Cup to be played at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium Dec 6-15.

“We are the European champions, hence should not be taken lightly. Our strength is the combination of our senior and junior players along with the attacking style of play which helps us have an edge over the opponents. Before coming here, this team did not have a chance of practicing together as most players were busy with their domestic home teams," said Henning, after his team's practice session.

"However, post coming here, the team had two thorough practice sessions and the coordination among them is looking good and strong. The team has an excellent tactical discipline and the ability to read the opponent which they will use to their advantage during the tournament."

Defending champions Germany will play their first match against Belgium at 2.30 p.m. on Friday on Pitch 2.