I just don't get it.
Germany is by far better than Italy. The level of play in the DEL (and a bit of NHL), where the german players compete is levels about the Italian League.
Something that mighty say something is that the German Players, neither in the NHL players (exept Kölzig but counts as Canadian) nor the DEL players are Stars or Leaders in their Clubs. It seems to me they fit to the role of the underdog that gives his best effort verry well obviously, but are completely stunned when they are asked to put themselves in a position where they have to simply dominate an opponent who is as a matter of fact inferior.
The Germans are a bunch of loosers, and lack winners desperately. I'm particularly disappointed by Kreutzer and Kathan because those two ARE damn good Hockey players, and DEL Stars. Only Sturm and Hecht are "can do" Athletes who are simply "winner type" guys who don't think but just shoot and therefore score.
The Italian Team is a bit of a joke with all the Canadians, is there actually someone from Italy on this team? Nevertheless that team is fighting admirably and they have the home crowd advantage. My argument is structure-based, and the hockey infrastructure in germany should simply produce way better results than this, never mind the NHL at this point. Any 20 german DEL ers should have the way better training and professional circumstances to outperform a selection from the Italian or Austrian league.
