Germany step up Cup defence

Germany’s squad has come together ahead of the 2011 FIFA Women’s World Cup, where they will fight to retain the title on home soil.

The squad, which bears little resemblance to that which claimed the title in China four years earlier, posed for group and individual photos in Cologne on Monday as the kickoff to the tournament nears.

Captain Birgit Prinz, one of the few remaining faces from the 2007 squad, has already announced she will retire following the World Cup.

The 33-year-old three-time FIFA Women’s World Player of the Year said it is still too early to say if the new-look German squad will be able to repeat their previous success, but is looking forward to the tournament all the same.

“The team still needs to find its feet,” Prinz told FIFA.com last week.

“In 2007 we functioned very well as a team and the various pillars of the side just fitted together perfectly. We had some great individual players and were well-organised tactically.”

“We’ll have to see what happens in 2011. Once again we’re in with a great chance, but we need to grow together as a team and function as a unit.”

“My enthusiasm is growing constantly. Obviously we’re favourites, but really it’s a win-win situation for us. We’ve got nothing to lose and just want to play good football.”

Germany face Canada in their opening group fixture on June 26. The final will take place in Frankfurt on July 17.