96 coach ahead of Hertha clash: "A perceived Bundesliga team"
For Stefan Leitl, the clash between Hannover 96 and Hertha BSC is more than just a normal encounter between two second-division soccer clubs. "Hertha are of course coming to Hannover as a Bundesliga team," said 96 coach Leitl ahead of the game on Friday (6.30pm/Sky). The Berliners are "a team that is individually very good," said the 46-year-old.
Hertha will also be well represented in the stands. 96 are expecting around 45,000 spectators and the visitors' section is completely sold out. "A near sell-out crowd is of course an additional motivational boost for us," said Leitl. The team from Lower Saxony, who are fourth in the table, will be looking to confirm their positive home record. In the last four home games, 96 have always won. "We want to extend that streak," said Leitl.
Hannover will have to do without top striker Cedrik Teuchert. "It's still the injury from the game against Schalke 04," said Leitl. The most dangerous 96 attacker with eight goals is still out with problems in his thigh. Fellow striker Havard Nielsen, on the other hand, should be ready for action. "The cold symptoms are almost gone," said Leitl. Julian Börner, on the other hand, will be absent due to illness.
Stefan Leitl, Hannover 96's coach, recognizes the quality of Hertha BSC, their opponents in Bundesliga 2, stating, "Hertha are indeed coming to Hannover as a Bundesliga team." Furthermore, Leitl anticipates the influence of the large fanbase on Hanover 96, expressing, "A nearly sold-out crowd is of course an additional motivational boost for us."
Source: www.dpa.com
